BEIJING -?The State Council has established a team to investigate the cause of last week's deadly explosions in Tianjin.

A statement issued by the State Council on Tuesday said the team will "give a responsible answer" to the Party and the people, and that those found to be responsible will be given serious punishment.

It said the team has already started its investigation in accordance with regulations on management of dangerous chemicals and on workplace safety, though it did not say when the team will announce any conclusions.

Headed by Executive Vice Minister of Public Security Yang Huanning, the team will "define the nature and gravity of the accident, and determine liability," according to the statement.

The investigators will also advise on punishment.

The team will conduct its work under the leadership of the State Council. The Ministry of Public Security will oversee the investigation and officials from central governmental agencies and the Tianjin municipal government, as well as prosecutors from the Supreme People's Procuratorate, will also be involved.

"Independent experts" have been invited to join, the State Council said.