US shrinks from 'free trade agreement'

[Rob Schaap <bantam@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

US leader lobbies for free trade agreement
http://www.abc.net.au/news/newslink/nat/newsnat-6sep2001-62.htm

                          Officials in the United States have gone cool on the
idea of a free trade agreement with Australia, despite a last-minute lobbying
campaign by supporters of the proposal ahead of a visit by Prime Minister John
Howard.

                          US trade representative Robert Zoellick says more
groundwork was needed before the US could begin talks with Australia and the
Agriculture Secretary has said she doubts the administration will move quickly
on any trade agreement.

                          However, a key Congressional leader has thrown his
support behind the plan.

                          Trent Lott, republican leader in the Senate, wrote
to President Bush urging him to begin negotiations on a free trade agreement
with Australia.

                          In the letter he says the visit of Prime Minister
Howard was a wonderful opportunity to launch the agreement.

                          He said an agreement would bring the fruits of the
free market to the entire Asia Pacific rim.

                          The Australian embassy and a free trade business
coalition have embarked on a last minute lobbying campaign.