21.   A resolution of the loans affair would improve the prospects for a sustained economic recovery in Japan, since the bad debt issue has battered business confidence.

22.   A spokesman for Gov. Michael F. Easley of North Carolina said the issue had nothing to do with his office.

23.   All three issues have hot buttons attached.

24.   But beyond the fashion stance, perhaps the most fundamental issues here have to do with comfort and function.

25.   But Colangelo insists the two issues have to be distinguished.

26.   But for Republicans, the issue had symbolic significance to point out the differences between Dole and Clinton, and their respective parties.

27.   But Hatch told reporters later that the issue likely would have little effect on the congressional review of the settlement plan.

28.   But here the issue probably has less to do with attitudes toward minorities than with lack of trust in federal bureaucrats.

29.   But ignoring issues like domestic violence and election reform would be a serious disappointment, given the support these issues have from all sides.

30.   But its visibility and proximity to the presidential ear announce to voters that the issue it represents has the highest national priority.