Fed: US farmer subsidies to go through despite Aust efforts

AAP General News (Australia)
12-12-2001
Fed: US farmer subsidies to go through despite Aust efforts

An Australian delegation is admitting defeat in its efforts to stop plans by the United
States to hand over $350 billion in subsidies to their farmers.

Led by Agriculture Minister WARREN TRUSS, the delegation spent the past two days trying
to convince the US Congress to change its planned farm bill.

Under the bill, which goes to the Senate tomorrow, American farmers will be paid to
produce goods no matter the world price or demand.

Australian dairy, citrus and sugar farmers face the biggest onslaught from government-assisted
US farmers, although even wheat and other broadacre crop farmers will face troubles.

Mr TRUSS says Congress' decision to go ahead with the farm bill is bad, not only for
Australian farmers, but for world trade.

AAP RTV sw/daw/wz/rp

KEYWORD: US TRADE AUST (CANBERRA)

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