    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1997, Book II)]
    [October 8, 1997]
    [Page 1321]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on House Ways and Means Committee Action on Fast-Track Trading
    Authority Legislation
    October 8, 1997

        I am pleased that the House Ways and Means Committee has reported
    out legislation with bipartisan support that restores the traditional
    trading authority every President has had since 1974.
        To keep our economy strong, we must continue to break down unfair
    foreign trade barriers to American products and services. This
    legislation, now passed by the committees of jurisdiction in both the
    Senate and the House, will allow us to tear down those barriers and help
    American businesses and workers compete and win in the global
    marketplace. I look forward to working with Members on both sides of the
    aisle to secure passage of this important legislation this year.