Military-run schools in China that accept the children of military personnel will either begin to be operated by local governments or be closed, according to a circular issued Sunday by central authorities.

Based on new principles, schools located outside military bases will be taken over by local governments to run. Those situated inside bases will be shut down if they are located in cities, or be transferred to local governments if they are in towns and border areas.

The transfer or closure of the schools will be financed by central authorities. They will continue to admit children of military personnel as in the original system and the newly-formed schools will enjoy special subsidies, said the circular.