The Dalai Lama's claim of "cultural genocide" in Tibet is nothing but lies, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao has said.

Speaking at the close of parliament, Mr Wen accused the exiled Tibetan leader of instigating recent violence in Tibet's main city, Lhasa.

China's response was restrained, he said, and in accordance with the law.

China says 13 people were killed by rioters in Lhasa. Tibetan exiles say at least 80 protesters were killed in a crackdown by Chinese security forces.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has called on both Chinese forces and demonstrators in Tibet to show restraint.

The protests began on 10 March - the anniversary of a Tibetan uprising against Chinese rule - and gradually escalated, culminating in a day of violence late last week.

The protests have also spread to Tibetan communities in Gansu and Sichuan provinces.