Fed: Government buckling on FTA - Rudd

AAP General News (Australia)
08-05-2004
Fed: Government buckling on FTA - Rudd

Opposition frontbencher KEVIN RUDD says the federal government is beginning to buckle
on a key amendment to the free trade agreement with the United States.

The foreign affairs spokesman says it's likely the government will accept both Labor
amendments by the end of next week.

Mr RUDD says comments by Foreign Minister ALEXANDER DOWNER and Liberal backbencher
PETER SLIPPER show the government is preparing to support Labor's amendment on pharmaceutical
patents.

Mr SLIPPER's told ABC radio that the trade deal legislation will pass parliament during
the current fortnight's sitting.

Mr RUDD says this indicates that the government is preparing to make a concession.

Deputy Prime Minister JOHN ANDERSON has also hinted that the government might accept
Labor's amendment provided it causes no adverse impacts elsewhere in the economy.

He says cabinet has yet to meet to reconsider its position.

Opposition Leader MARK LATHAM says Labor will release the detail of its two amendments
next week in the Senate.

AAP RTV mfh/sb/mj/rp

KEYWORD: TRADE US RUDD (CANBERRA)

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