WASHINGTON, Oct 19 (Reuters) - U.S. trade officials said on Tuesday they were checking on a New York Times report that China had blocked shipments to the United States and Europe of crucial manufacturing minerals known as rare earths.
"We've seen the news report and are seeking more information in keeping with our recent announcement of an investigation into whether China's actions and policies are consistent with WTO rules," said Nefeterius McPherson, a spokeswoman for the U.S. Trade Representative's office.
(Reporting by Doug Palmer; Editing by Peter Cooney and Sandra Maler)