A draft set of rules for commercial performances published on its website stipulates that artistes must not 'use pre-recorded songs or music to replace live singing or instrument playing' to 'cheat the public'.

Those who are caught in the act will be punished, the rules say, without specifying what the penalties will be.

'We're seeking input from the public about this regulation', a spokesman for the ministry, who did not want to be named, told AFP.

It comes three months after lip-synching caused a storm during the Olympic Games opening ceremony after it was revealed that a girl who moved millions of viewers with a stirring song was actually miming.

The show's musical director revealed she was put on stage because she was prettier than the real singer, who performed from behind the scenes.

A report on the semi-official China News Service news agency suggested the punishments for lip-synching would involve exposing an individual performer, group or organiser in public.

Their licence would be revoked if they breached the rules again within two years, the report said. -- AFP