Local Red Cross draft regulations spark criticism

A Red Cross system to encourage donations proposed by Jiangsu Yancheng's Red Cross council enraged netizens for "trading lives", said local newspaper Modern Express.

The draft, the Yancheng Red Cross Membership Management Regulation, said a Yancheng native could apply for Red Cross membership if they donate more than 100 yuan ($16) to the local charity and that membership benefits include priority for being rescued when there's a disaster in Yancheng.

Those who donate more than 1,000 yuan along with their spouse and relatives could apply to a bail-out fund for at least the amount of their accumulated donations when there's a disaster or they are suffering from a serious illness, said the draft, which was called "trading lives" by angry netizens.

The draft also mentioned donors would be awarded medals and titles according to how much they donate. For example, those who donate more than 100,000 yuan would be awarded the silver Red Cross medal and selected as honorary president and those who donate more than 500,000 yuan would be given the title honorary vice-president for the local Red Cross.

Staff from Yancheng's Red Cross told the Beijing News that the regulation was only a draft. Members of council can pose their concerns during discussions.