Trade Minister, Mark Vaile, today said that Australia would staunchly defend its position on Howe Leather against US action in the World Trade Organisation (WTO). Mr Vaile said the Australian Government had fully implemented the WTO ruling on Howe Leather. The company has repaid $8.065 million of the $30 million grant contract. This amount more than covered the unused portion of the contract (to June 30, 2000) that has now been terminated. "Our position is that we've implemented the recommendation of the WTO (on Sept 14) as we were required to do, and in a manner consistent with the WTO and the report of review panel," Mr Vaile said. "While the US has a right to challenge our implementation measures, we will be defending our position that we have complied fully with the WTO's June ruling." Mr Vaile said the same panellists would likely be hearing the case. "We have agreed procedures with the US that neither party will appeal the coming panel's decision. The WTO's final adjudication is expected by mid-January.
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