Netizens recently attacked Liao Xinbo, deputy director of the Guangdong Provincial Health Bureau, for a photo posted on his blog. In the photo, Liao is inspecting a disaster-stricken area as one of his subordinates holds an umbrella over him. Many netizens say the subordinate is brown-nosing, while others contend the official is so used to preferential treatment that he can't even hold his own umbrella.

Let's take a look at today's Media Spin to hear different media responses.

Reporter:

A commentary from Shanxi Evening News says Liao Xinbo's response to netizens' anger is worth noticing. He quoted some criticisms in a follow-up article saying that he appreciates the honest opinions. He also explained that he was so involved in his discussion that he didn't notice the umbrella, and that he thinks the subordinate was doing it out of concern for his health. The commentary says it's good that Liao respects netizens' opinions, even if some used really strong words. Many officials today have followed the Internet trend of opening their blogs, but Liao has set an example for them by responding to netizens' opinions promptly and with respect.

An article from Huashang Bao says a discussion over whether holding umbrella for officials is right or not is beyond the point. Instead, in a society where public criticism is often ignored or hushed, the responsible attitude of Liao Xinbo is commendable. The current communication between officials and the public is ineffective, and maybe blogging can provide us with a better channel for interaction.

A commentary from Beijing Youth Daily says this umbrella incident shows that the public has higher expectations of officials now than 20 years ago, when nobody cared whether or not officials held their own umbrellas. People want officials to enjoy fewer privileges, and pay more attention to their public images.