Bill to expand Taiwan arms sales under scrutiny of US lawmakers

A proposed law that stands to dramatically expand United States arms sales to Taiwan, and rile Beijing, was set to take a step closer to reality in the US Congress today.

The International Relations Committee of the House of Representatives was expected to override the deep concerns of the Clinton administration and back the Taiwan Security Enhancement Act.

The proposal demands the US provide ballistic missile defence for Taiwan as well as advanced air-to-air missiles, planes and diesel submarines.

It also formally upgrades military ties between Taiwan and the US, a relationship that is currently unofficial.

Once passed in the committee, the bill is expected to move to the floor of the House for a full vote by the end of next week. When that is complete, the process will be repeated in the Senate.

One senior committee aide said: 'It is hard to say if there is enough time for it to move ahead this year. But make no mistake about it, many Republican congressmen are still very keen on this bill.' The State Department, Pentagon and White House have been shrill in their opposition. A fierce lobbying effort is under way as fears mount that the bill has a good chance of passing the House, a move which would be certain to inflame Beijing. The bill may face more opposition once it gets to the Senate.