China to appoint top panel for safety

BEIJING, Aug. 18 (UPI) -- China has appointed a top trouble shooter to oversee food and product safety, it was reported Saturday.

Vice Premier Wu Yi will convene a leadership group to address safety issues amid nearly daily reports of the hazards of Chinese-made products, London’s Financial Times reported.

Wu has a history of trouble-shooting for the government in trade disputes and health issues. She also serves as a steward for the Chinese in twice-yearly meetings

with senior U.S. officials, the Times reported.

Millions of Chinese made products, from children's toys to toothpaste, have been recalled from shelves in the United States and Europe.

Toys R Us announced Friday it was halting sales of Chinese-made babies' vinyl bibs because of excessive lead levels.