Fed: Howard says not all FTA hurdles overcome

AAP General News (Australia)
08-13-2004
Fed: Howard says not all FTA hurdles overcome

Prime Minister JOHN HOWARD has rejected claims that the passage of free trade agreement
legislation means all hurdles have been overcome.

Mr HOWARD's told Brisbane radio 4BC US President GEORGE W BUSH will need a certification
that the enabling legislation is consistent with the FTA before signing off on it.

Mr HOWARD says even the slightest inconsistency could make it non-compliant with the agreement.

He says America's trade spokesman is reserving his judgment on the Pharmaceutical Benefits
Scheme amendment, despite Labor's claims the Americans have given it the all-clear.

Labor's amendment centres on the PBS, to protect the prices of subsidised medicines.

Mr HOWARD says he didn't want to vote for the amendment, but he did so in the interests
of passing the agreement.

AAP RTV mb/ajc/lm

KEYWORD: TRADE US HOWARD (CANBERRA)

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