Military

DATE=3-6-02

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=CONGRESS COLOMBIA (L ONLY)

NUMBER=2-287248

BYLINE=DEBORAH TATE

DATELINE=CAPITOL HILL

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: The U-S House of Representatives has passed a resolution expressing support for lifting restrictions on U-S military aid to Colombia. Correspondent Deborah Tate reports from Capitol Hill.

Text: The House passed the non-binding resolution by voice vote.

The move came shortly Secretary of State Colin Powell told a Congressional panel the Bush administration is considering asking lawmakers to change the law that limits military aid Colombia to anti-drug efforts.

In the wake of the collapse of the peace process in Colombia and stepped up rebel attacks, the Bush administration believes it may be time to expand military aid to that government to help in its counterinsurgency campaign.

Republican Congressman Henry Hyde, Chairman of the International Relations Committee, agrees.

/// HYDE ACTUALITY ///

It is imperative that we recognize the dire consequences of inaction in this horrific situation - not just for Colombians-but for the rest of this hemisphere. It is time to help the Colombian people defend themselves. As a major defender of democracy, we must try to bolster it wherever we see it seriously threatened - especially in our own hemisphere.

/// END ACT ///

Congressman Tom Lantos, the ranking Democrat on the Committee, said Congress must have its say on any policy change toward Colombia. (signed)

Neb/dat/PT