
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: TUESDAY, October 12, 1993                   TAG: 9310120183
SECTION: VIRGINIA                    PAGE: C-4   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

TODAY'S TOPIC: NORTH AMERICAN FREE TRADE AGREEMENT

I have called the campaign headquarters of both candidates and wanted to find their views on the North American Free Trade Agreement, but they have not given me an answer.

- Harold Trempy, Martinsville

What do the candidates feel the impact of NAFTA will be on our state because we are so industrialized?

- S. Vernon Jr., Collinsville

Mary Sue Terry:

"I have my concerns about NAFTA, and my concern is based on the fact I don't see, based on the information I have now, how it helps us create jobs in Virginia. I have particular concern about those industries in the southern part of our state - textile and furniture. I haven't yet had the opportunity to look at side agreements. This matter, as you know, is now being debated fully in the Congress. At this juncture, I am expressing my concern and will continue to follow the matter as it progresses in the Congress."

George Allen:

"I think one of the greatest opportunities we have for additional job creation in Virginia is exports, whether that's to Latin America, certainly for Eastern Europe. One of the places we've had the biggest increase in exports is to Eastern Europe. Of course, we started from zero.

"I think we ought to have a trade office in Eastern Europe. I think that's a place where many of our agricultural products as well as manufacturing products and consulting services can be marketed. There's a great opportunity there for Virginia. In the long run, we may want to see if Latin America has opportunities there as well.

"I support NAFTA, because I think, on balance, NAFTA will benefit Virginia as far as creating greater job opportunities. I do have concerns about the sovereignty of this country, but I think those are [addressed], though I also want to make certain the side agreements on job safety and environmental regulations and all the regulations we go through will be imposed on the Mexican economy, as well.

"I understand the concerns of many people, but maybe it's my optimistic nature - I suspect that a lot of the xenophobia that has been engendered on this is inappropriate. We have a great country, and we have a wonderful commonwealth. We have the best port on the Eastern Seaboard.

"I look at expanding trade opportunities as something positive for Virginia - break down some of the tariffs that we now have to go through in Mexico, make them zero eventually, so that we can sell our goods and products and skills down in Mexico. I think it's good for America. On balance, I think it's positive, therefore I support it."

Got a question for the candidates for governor? We'll try to get you an answer and published it. Call 981-3119 or (800) 346-1234, extension 119, and follow the directions.

Keywords:
POLITICS

by CNB