In a decree signed by Premier Wen Jiabao, China on Friday issued a set of regulations on management of the country's 1.6-million-member police force to ensure that they are more competent and honest.

The regulations, to take effect on January 1, 2007, require police officers who are deemed "incompetent" for two consecutive years or "refuse to abide by regulations" to be dismissed. Those who refuse to accept new postings or tasks may face the same penalty.

Governments at all levels will be required to fully fund police departments out of their local budgets. Police bureaus will no longer be allowed to keep the fines and fees they collect.

This will effectively prevent conflicts of interests when police are exercising their administrative power, police officers say.

The regulations also say that local governments must consult a higher level police organization on the nomination of new local police chiefs.

Source: Xinhua