Statement by Secretary of Agriculture Dan Glickman on Department of Justice's 
Consent Degree Regarding The Continental-Cargill Merger - July 8, 1999
                                
                                
                      Release No. 0279.99

Statement
                               by
Secretary of Agriculture Dan Glickman on Department of Justice's 
    Consent Degree Regarding The Continental-Cargill Merger
                                
                          July 8, 1999


     "In December, 1998, I wrote to Attorney General Janet Reno, urging
careful review of the proposed Continental-Cargill merger.  I was particularly
concerned that the proposed merger would increase concentration, decrease
competition, limit farmers' storage and marketing choices, and reduce purchase
prices for our farmers.  

     "Therefore, I am very pleased that the Department of Justice has taken
these steps to protect American farmers from the potential adverse effects of
the merger.  

  "I look forward to reviewing further the details of this consent decree
and working with the Department of Justice to ensure continued protection for
America's farmers."  

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