An article on the news portal cnhubei.com quotes a top Chinese official as saying that government officials should embrace wholesome family values which will greatly enhance their overall effectiveness at work.

The official said family values, along with political integrity, a good track record and social ethics, should be the basis on which officials are promoted.

Looking at a candidate's family values before promotion is a departure from standard practices, but it is a much-needed move.

The article went on to say that a good official cannot be judged on his performance at work alone. After all, charity begins at home, the article said. Many times, it has been seen that corrupt government officials also have dysfunctional private lives.

The article says taking care of one's family is also a social responsibility. It said it is highly unlikely that an official that lacks devotion to his or her family will be devoted to the country and society.

The article states that the new standards for the promotion of officials should sound an alarm bell to those who have neglected their family.