For Immediate Release��������� ���������������������Contact: Jim Dyke or Trevor Francis
Wednesday, October 31, 2001����������� ������������������ ��� 202-482-4883

STATEMENT BY COMMERCE SECRETARY DON EVANS ON SOFTWOOD LUMBER

Today's decision marks an important step in the investigation of softwood lumber imports from Canada. The determination was based on facts received before the Department, with active participation of all interested parties.

We look forward to comments on our preliminary determination, and will consider these comments carefully as we proceed with the case.

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