Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji today blamed a "madman" for the school blast in south-east China and denied allegations children were making fireworks as angry parents held a protest to demand justice.
Premier Zhu told Hong Kong reporters during a meeting in Beijing that Tuesday's blast in the village of Fanglin which left scores dead was carried out by a "man who has a grudge and mental illness," Cable Television said.
The Premier said the man detonated the explosives because of unhappiness over his failed marriage, said the Hong Kong broadcasters. He said no fireworks were being manufactured on the premises.
Premier Zhu's denial came despite testimony from parents, villagers, local officials and state media that children had been forced to make firecrackers for years.
AFP