BEIJING -- The State Council, China's cabinet, on Thursday announced a number of government appointments.

Ding Wei was appointed vice minister of culture, replacing Zhao Shaohua.

Hu Wei was appointed vice minister of the General Administration of Customs, replacing Wang Songhe.

Xu Shaochuan was appointed deputy director of the State Administration of Work Safety.

Li Wufeng was appointed deputy director of the State Council Information Office, while Wang Guoqing was removed from the post. Li will no longer serve as deputy head of the State Internet Information Office.

Shi Gang was appointed deputy director of the Research Office of the State Council.

Yang Fu and Song Yuanming were appointed deputy directors of the State Administration of Coal Mine Safety, replacing Wang Shuhe and Peng Jianxun.