The contraceptive pill for women went on sale after a nine-year battle to have it approved. Pressure for its introduction increased when the government approved the male anti-impotence drug Viagra earlier this year, after just six months. No reasons were given, but the announcement fuelled speculation that an election might be imminent. And he's still in fighting mood. At a three- hour confirmation hearing on September 2, Patten had most of the 626 members of the EU assembly eating out of his hand with promises of a tougher European stand on human rights in China.
Serious violations continue to occur.
Backing Patten's tough stance is the EU's future trade commissioner, Pascal Lamy, who has promised to improve workers' rights and stop child labour. But it remains to be seen whether Patten can translate rhetoric into reality. Put aside the rhetoric and what you'll find, says the official, is that most European governments and businesses are more interested in keeping their existing cosy China relations. Review Publishing Company Limited, Hong Kong. All rights reserved.