US farmers back fast-track authority

25 September 1998

US farmers back fast-track authority

AGRICULTURAL lobbies are at the forefront of the campaign to give the US President fast-track authority to negotiate trade agreements.

Fast-track legislation would allow President Clinton to negotiate trade agreements with a commitment from Congress that the final outcome of talks will be accepted or defeated without amendment

The administration has sought the authority to negotiate with the World Trade Organisation and agree free trade pacts with Asia and Latin America.

The Business Roundtable hopes that more farm state congressman can be convinced to support fast-track at a time when agriculture is in crisis.

Donna Reifschneider, president of the National Pork Producers, said fast track was essential if the Government was to do its job of opening export markets.

• Financial Times 25/09/98 page 6