US farmers launch radio ads for Bush trade bill
Date: 02-Nov-01
Country: USA
Steven Cohen, a spokesman for the coalition, said the ads are aimed at both Democrats and Republicans in 15-20 states.
Many farm state lawmakers have been reluctant to support the bill because of concern the Bush administration will not vigorously defend U.S. agricultural interests in trade talks.
"I think if they don't get the ag thing fixed, the bill will never come up (on the floor for a vote)," said Rep. Earl Pomeroy, a North Dakota Democrat.
Business groups have been pressing for a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives on the legislation before the start of World Trade Organization meeting in Doha, Qatar Nov. 9.
The bill, also known as "fast-track" legislation, would allow Bush to negotiate trade agreements that could be rejected or approved by Congress, but not amended.
Supporters say approval of the bill would send a strong signal to the more than 140 countries who will gather in Doha in nine days to try to launch new world trade negotiations.
House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Bill Thomas, a California Republican, told reporters Wednesday he expected the House to vote on the bill before the Doha meeting.
"The decisions are yet to be made, but I have a strong feeling that the House will probably express itself prior to the ministerial meeting in Doha," Thomas said.
Labor and environmental groups oppose the bill crafted by Thomas and three Democrats. The legislation does not do enough to address harmful effects of trade on workers and the environment, the groups say.
