The ongoing NPC and CPPCC meetings have drawn the attention of many news agencies. Some government officials naturally became the focus for some reporters. When surrounded by reporters, they are usually addressed by their official titles, such as Secretary, Mayor, Minister or Provincial Governor.
An article carried by China Youth Daily says that these "titles" are unnecessary and inappropriate when addressing the officials. The paper suggested that reporters address these officials by their names plus "comrade" or "deputy" may be more appropriate.
The newspaper explained that on one hand, addressing by their titles under the current circumstance will bring inconvenience to the interviewees. It causes pressure. So when the officials answer questions they naturally become very vigilant because of their identities as officials.
On the other hand, this may make other deputies feel neglected because their identities are not as important as those officials. The paper pointed out though officials have their positions in their work units, in the NPC and CPPCC meetings, their identities are the same--deputies or representatives. Their proposals are treated equally, and their decisions are all equally important when voting.
Therefore the newspaper advocates that reporters address the official as "deputies" or "representatives" may better reveal the spirit of "the people as the master of their own country", and strengthen their sense of responsibility.