AP Interview: Baucus says action on unsafe imports must balance with free trade

HELENA, Mont. (AP) Senator Max Baucus says he will hold hearings later this year on recent recalls of Chinese-made products, and adds congressional action may be needed.

But the Democrat told The Associated Press in an interview today that free trade is also important. He says any decisions limiting imports must be based on science, not protectionism.

Millions of Chinese-made goods ranging from faulty tires to toys tainted with lead to toothpaste have been recalled in recent months.

Baucus says his committee will hold hearings on the issue in a month or two.

He says the United States needs to be certain that if it bans an item, other countries won't retaliate with bans on American products.

By AP writer Matt Gouras (Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 08-15-07 1740CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list