The SCMP reports China is banning chequebook 'news' - they will no longer print paid reports or advertorials.

Three leading mainland newspapers - including the People's Daily - have announced a blanket ban on printing paid reports lavishing praise on local authorities and officials. The move is part of the central government's efforts to root out corruption and restore the official media's credibility...

Advertorials masquerading as news stories or features are common in the mainland's print media and represent a significant source of revenue for media organisations. The People's Daily and other party papers often set aside special columns or pages for articles lauding the achievements of local governments or local departments, complete with large photographs of heads of parties or organisations...

Such advertorials have proved very effective for officials seeking promotions, as the People's Daily is a must read for all party officials up to top government leaders. However, the practice has helped breed widespread corruption in mainland media organisations. Apart from the paid advertorials, local officials often bribe journalists to write puff pieces about their personal achievements.

Time-honoured newspaper traditions are falling foul to China's drive to stop corruption completely undermining the public's faith in the Government. But where we will now find out about all the glorious prestige projects of the provinces and cities? Think of the children.