U.S. ban hits at Games

Press, 31 March 1980, Page 8

U.S. ban hits at Games

NZPA-Reuter Washington The United States authorities, tightening, their export controls to the Moscow Olympics in retaliation for) the Soviet military action in Afghanistan, have banned goods ranging from, broadcast equipment to running shoes. The latest moves announced bv the White House! cover sUSl3.4million' worth] of broadcast. television,' recording, and newswirecomputer equipment, and] could have a significant ef-l feet on the worldwide reporting of the Games.’ according to Commerce De-i partment officials. The White House an-| nounced the sweeping new controls as a top State Department official told reporters that the Soviet Union was almost certainly using poison gas in Afghanistan. The Deputy Secretary of State (Mr Warren Christopher) said there was “mounting evidence that the Soviets are using gas and, there are recurrent reports, so many now that they seem almost to be undeniable, that lethal gas is being used.” The sweeping ban is also expected to have the effect of indemnifying about 50 United States companies who contracted to supply goods for the Games and are now not able to ship them, according to Commerce Department sources. One of the companies most extensively effected by the new order will be N.B.C, television. which signed rights to televise the Games. N.B.C. has already paid sUSB7million including sUS3smillion for the telev i S i o n rights and sUSs2million for production costs..

In addition, NBC has estimated that it has probably spent up to another sUS3smillion for other production costs. In addition, t ,oods for the Games which previously had not required an export permit will now'need one, and these applications will be denied, too. Included in these items will be athletic kits, track and field equipment, and running shoes. |