http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=ad8_WDpq0pm8

The author of the Chinese article Jiang Ruqin is now claiming his writing only represents his own opinion. In an interview with Bloomberg reporters, he admits that (1) he is not a part of the investigation team and that (2) the numbers he quoted in his article is taken from Chinese media reports. The entire website where the article was published has been taken down, as from 11.00am this morning.

Regardless, the article is now widely circulated at the Chinese language blogosphere. Even China Daily has written a report based on this article. However, the news has not generated too much reaction from netizens in China. Those who commented are questioning the authenticity of this article. So it looks as if Chinese netizens are smarter than western journalists in spotting problematic web postings.

I must say that I basically agree with Crikey’s call for more action. The longer it drags on, the less likely it would be for Stern Hu and his colleagues to have a fair trial. Public opinion in China is interpreting the silence from Rio Tinto and from the Australian Government as an admission of guilt.