WHITB3Y FREE PRESS, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 1988, PAGE 3 Free trade good for both countries, says Crispo A free trade deal between Canada and the United States would be a "win win" . situation fqr both countries, according to a professor of political economy at the University of Toront. And one of the reasons Canadians are confused about the deal is "loaded media," said John Crispo, guest speaker at an "international" Durham Showcase hosted by the Durham Region Manufacturers' Association last -: Thursday night. About 50 visitors from the Buffalo Chamber of Commerce attended. On the Canadian side, Crispo said free trade will give Canadian manufacturers and businesses access to the huge United States market. "That access is important. The alternative to free trade is greater U.S. protectionism, not the staus quo," said Crispo. He said *the deal id also important for the U.S. because it will show other countries that the U.S. is ready to deal. "It is important that the U.S. sends out a free trade signal. If the U.S. goes protectionist there will be retaliation from all over the world and we will revert back te the 1930's. "This is a good deal for Cfanada but not perfect. Some things got excepted including breweries and the dairy industry," said Crispo. He believes Canada will realize more economic gain than the United States. "The sialler partner always gains more because of the access te a bigger market." He also argued that if America does not sign the pact and takes a protectionist route, Canda would be in trouble. Board fears cost of class size reduction The Ministry of Education's plan to reduce Gr. 1 and 2 class size has prompted Duiham Board of Education concerns about financing and accommodation. Sandra Lawson, who chairs the board, states in a letter to. Minister of Education Chris Ward that while the board "supports the general philosophy of smaller classes," it would cost the board about $4.7 million te add 43 portables and 42 teachers te implement the program. "It is our view that since this is a very direct provincial initiative, then all direct and indirect costs associated with it must be assumed by the Province of Ontario and not passed on to the local ratepayers," says Lawson, Pickering trustee. Lawson notes that the board SEE PAGE 26 JOHN CRISPO According to Crispo, Canada exports one-third of its goods with 80 per cent of that going to the U.S. "If no free trade, then. we are in trouble," he said. He also mentioned that free trade would help Canadians get rid of an inferiority complex about being unable to compete. "I am fed up with that. We can compete with the best," said Crispo, using General Motors of Canada's new autoplex facility as an example. He called it one of the best car plants in the world "if not the best." He also admitted that free trade is having a rough ride down in the States. "The winners (under the deal) are too silent. But some, like the American Chamber of Commerce, are starting to come into the debate. They have to fight for this." He said if the United States thinks about the deal "in the big picture" . and not just economically, "this will go through." Crispo also said the deal is confusing to Canadians because of a loaded media and its opponents. He said the Toronto Star was "a disgrace" as it is not even running "15 per cent pro-trade." Crispo told .association members and other visitors to the showcase that The Star is considering a lawsuit against him because of his remarks. When he asked for a shów of hands for financial support in the event of a lawsuit, about one-third of the audience raised their hands. Crispo also challenged Bob White, president of the Canadian Auto Workers, to a debate on the deal. He argued that White has "an unbelievable double standard" when it comes to the deal. Crispo referred to the Auto Pact as "managed trade" and argued that White is - opposed to the deal because it gives other got." groups "the same deal he has SEE PAGE 10 ci Anniversary IGNS e roll W. 26.00 oi 1652 BAYLY ST. W. PICKERING 831-7747 MAv 4th Sa VINTAGE DES $7e doubl *comparable book price $ 30% on al BOOK ORDERS** ** until March 14/88 (fabric not included) LARGEST COLLECTION OF BORDERS IN DURHAM • Country Specialists Featured in Toronto Life Magazine • Folk Art & Crafts • Children's Mini Play Area • Personalized Service 4 i 1 ýý ; 1 1 ý ý e ý ý. ýý 1 # y, ý 1 t 0 t f , ý e à - i Il 1. - ýl 1. l' ý -, ý t 1 Jiý 9 i M't'. N'FI*