China's top policymakers say Wednesday that the country must heavily crack down on the rampant corruption behind coal mines accidents.

Participants of Wednesday' s executive meeting of the State Council, China's cabinet, said there are some government officials get involved in the coal business for illegal money. They have become the "umbrella" for the illegal operation of some mines.

The meeting, chaired by Premier Wen Jiabao, deliberated and passed in principle a draft regulation on coal mine disaster prevention.

According to the regulation, coal mines must suspend operation immediately once a hidden problem is detected. If the mines continue illegal operation, strict penalty will be given.

Other measures for the disaster prevention include that miners should receive safety training and pass the examination before taking the job. The coal managers must take turns to go underground and work with miners.

(Xinhua News Agency September 1, 2005)