By David Gardner Last updated at 12:34 PM on 14th February 2012 Apple has opened up its Chinese factories to independent examiners after claims that workers were subjected to appalling sweatshop conditions. The technology giant announced yesterday that members of the Washington-based Fair Labour Association would be checking the factories where iPads and iPhones are assembled. The team of observers began their inspections yesterday at Foxconn City in Shenzhen, China, a complex that employs and houses hundreds of thousands of workers. Poor conditions: A protester outside Apple's Hong Kong store. An investigation has found Apple's pledges to improve its working practices have proved hollow
@highlight
Comes as firm becomes most valuable in the world
@highlight
Apple now valued at $460bn (£300bn)
The FLA plans to interview thousands of employees at several @placeholder suppliers.