1.   Although companies must apply and be approved to be part of the program, she said, she did not think that any company had ever been rejected.

2.   If Congress approves the amendment, which is not subject to a presidential veto, it then goes to the state legislatures.

3.   Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott, a Mississippi Republican, said he supports expanding the alliance and the chamber probably would approve it were the debate to occur today.

4.   Others approved were Eritrea, Turks and Caicos Islands, U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa and Mongolia.

5.   Rato said the draft budget, to be approved by the cabinet on Friday, does not increase taxes and maintains social service spending.

6.   They are angry at the council for not informing them of the new system despite it being approved almost three years ago.

7.   In late August a new constitution was approved which was to be followed by the elections just announced.

8.   The budget is yet to be approved by parliament, which resumed its budget session here Wednesday.

9.   The plan has, however, yet to be approved by Sharon and the Palestinians.