WASHINGTON, June 25: The US House of Representatives voted to support President Bill Clinton's decision to renew China's most favoured nation (MFN) trade status for another year.

In a vote of 259 to 173 on Tuesday, the house rejected a measure sponsored by representative Gerald Solomon, Republican of New York, that would have overturned Clinton's decision to maintain normal trade relations with China.

Lawmakers were swayed by arguments that revoking China's MFN status would do nothing to stop human rights abuses and could in the end work against US commercial and security interests in the region as well as hurt Hong Kong at a time when it needs US support.

During more than four hours of debate, lawmakers expressed concern about human rights abuses in China, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, the fate of Hong Kong after it reverts to China on July 1 and allegations that Beijing tried to influence US elections through illegal campaign contributions. Opponents also pointed to the $40 billion US trade deficit with China.

Meanwhile, President Bill Clinton praised the House of Representatives vote maintaining normal US trade relations with China, saying it was ``a vote for America's interests.'' ``It sends a clear signal to our friends and foes alike that when it comes to America's security and prosperity, our nation speaks with one voice,'' Clinton said in a statement issued by the White House.

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.