Hong Kong — Hong Kong will set up an independent committee headed by a judge to determine the cause of a deadly apartment block fire that shocked the city, and to make recommendations to prevent a similar tragedy from happening again, its leader said Tuesday.

John Lee, the chief executive of the Chinese region, pledged to overcome vested interests and bring about systemic change in the construction industry. Police said Tuesday afternoon that the death toll had risen to at least 156 people after more bodies were found. About 30 others remain missing.

“We must uncover the truth, ensure that justice is served, let the deceased rest in peace and provide comfort to the living,” he told reporters at a weekly press conference. “We want to ensure that we will prevent such a tragedy from happen

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