China to expel prominent scientist Wang Xiaojun from top body as corruption probe keeps sights on PLA Rocket Force
- Wang Xiaojun led development of Long March 7 rockets used to resupply Tiangong space station and launch satellites
- Decision follows regular meeting chaired by CPPCC chairman and Politburo Standing Committee member Wang Huning
Wang Xiaojun, who led the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, will be removed as a representative on the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), state broadcaster CCTV said without detailing why Wang was being removed.
The decision came after Wang Huning, the CPPCC chairman and a member of the Politburo Standing Committee, chaired a regular meeting with his deputies. The meeting did not have the power to dismiss Wang outright. The decision is likely to be made final in March, before the conference and national legislature meet.
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China has targeted senior officials in and close to the rocket force, which oversees nuclear and missile development.
He did not respond to an email on Tuesday asking for comment on his dismissal.
A native of Henan province, Wang graduated from the National University of Defence Technology with a doctorate specialising in rocket engines, according to a 2016 Xinhua report.
