Wen Jiabao's family denies NYT report on huge wealth

HONG KONG (AP) - A Hong Kong newspaper says Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao's family has denied a report that it has amassed assets worth US$2.7 billion (S$3.29 billion).

The New York Times had reported on Friday that most of the wealth was accumulated after Mr Wen rose to high office in 2002.

The South China Morning Post today published a letter from lawyers of Mr Wen's family that said the "hidden riches" mentioned in the report do not exist. It said those family members who are engaged in business have not conducted any illegal activities and do not hold any shares in any companies.

The statement disputing aspects of the New York Times article is a rare instance of a powerful Chinese political family responding directly to a foreign media report.