Former rail minister charged with corruption

China’s former railways minister, who has long faced accusations of using taxpayer funds to support a lavish lifestyle, was formally charged with corruption and abuse of power, The New York Times reported, citing state media. The charges follow his removal in February 2011 from the position with reports at the time that he had embezzled US$152 million while in public office. China’s state-owned media and netizens have both alleged his corruption has compromised the safety of the country’s high speed rail network. These allegations intensified after a deadly train crash in the summer of 2011 that killed 40 and injured 191.