I first began advising against any dealings with Frankie Boy more than three years ago - for all the good it's done. I'm sure that during that three year period he has pocketed enough ill begotten gains to buy himself a villa in Switzerland. So why do we keep trying? Maybe it's because we delude ourselves into believing we can make a difference. Or maybe we think that if even just one FT heeds our advice, we will have at least achieved a modicum amount of payback for our efforts. Generally, although not so much lately, I have ascribed to the latter belief.

On the other hand, it may be possible that if we begin a barrage of complaints to the proper authorities, they will finally grow weary of the problem and actually confront it head on and prevent Frankie Boy and his ilk from tainting the reputation of China - after all, many FT's go home with horror stories that help to feed the anti China frenzy. The words "doubtful but possible" come to mind as I read that last sentence; however, why not give it a try? Though it is seemingly apparent that they would rather not get involved, it's not like they're not aware of the problem. But there is strength in numbers.

Address:
Ministry of Education
No.37 Damucang Hutong, Xidan, Beijing, P.R.C
Postcode:100816

Telephone:+86-10-66096114

Naturally, stick to the facts when posting or phoning your complaints - avoid opinions. Moreover, be aware that most Chinese employees have never heard of the concept of "the buck stops here." Immediacy seems to be foreign to them as well, but "sweeping it under the rug" seems to be fairly common. Local and Provincial authorities generally don't want to get involved. Most Chinese who have had important matters to deal with will tell you that one needs to take their concerns to Beijing. Interestingly, they actually have faith in the Beijing government, but rarely do they express such faith in local government. In addition, I have found it helpful to have a Chinese friend or representative on your side when dealing with school leaders who have been fraudulent in their dealings with me. I would assume that that applies to dealing with government officials as well.

Finally, I think we must realize that as Western foreigners our complaints are often viewed as unwarranted grumblings. Advice is often viewed as meddlesome. If you doubt that, try giving well placed advice to your employers and see how far that gets you. Never the less, if, like me, you came here with the hope of making a difference, you may find that just setting a good example is not quite good enough anymore. Nor does simply posting advice in these forums seem to have the desired effect of ridding this business of the likes of Frankie Boy. Maybe we need to move beyond the fairly effortless ranting and take a few steps beyond the comforts of our own keyboards.