[WillowIX]

From CBC: WASHINGTON-- U.S. President George Bush has lifted the punishing tariffs he imposed on some steel imports in 2002. In lifting the controversial tariffs, which led to fierce counterattacks from European and Asian countries, Bush said they had done their job, giving the U.S. industry time to restructure. "These safeguard measures have now achieved their purpose, and as a result of changed economic circumstances, it is time to lift them," he said in a statement. Within minutes of Bush's announcement, the European Union (EU) lifted its threat of imposing $2.2 billion of counter-tariffs on U.S. products. The U.S. decision was widely expected before the formal announcement on Thursday. Government officials briefed U.S. lawmakers on the decision before it was made public. In the announcement, Bush disclosed a measure aimed at protecting the ailing U.S. industry from "unfair" competition. Early reporting requirements will be strengthened to ensure there's no sudden increase in imported steel. He also said the U.S. would use its antidumping laws if imports jumped after the tariffs are lifted, and American negotiators will push exporting countries to adopt "new and strong disciplines on subsidies" for steel producers. and to continue pursuing global negotiations aimed at reducing subsidies. The U.S. tariffs had been attacked by European and other countries, backed by a World Trade Organization ruling against the duties. The EU threat of imposing its own duties on U.S. exports was aimed at things like oranges, chosen to cause Bush political pain in swing states that he needs to win in the 2004 election. But by lifting the tariffs, Bush opens himself to attacks in the steel-producing states, West Virginia, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Written by CBC News Online staff

It seems someone or something finally got through to him.