Theoretically, government lotteries are to raise additional funds to support public welfare; but in reality lottery agencies become interest groups that derive huge profits from the process. It is urgent to strengthen supervision over the lotteries so that they serve public welfare instead of their own selfish interests.

Shi Zhengwen, director of the Center for Fiscal and Tax Law Research, China University of Political Science and Law, Xinhua News Agency, Dec 7

Management of parking spaces and the nation's lotteries are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the huge public resources under government control, which range from energy, mines and finance to State-owned assets. How to solve the parking space management problem will test the government's will and ability to use public resources for the public good.