the Clinton administration, supporting the American toy-manufacturing giant Mattel Inc and several other toy companies, is lobbying against European efforts to ban controversial chemical compounds from teething rings and other toys for children.

With the European Union (eu) nearing a decision on whether to prohibit the sale of toys made with polyvinyl chloride (pvc), the Commerce Department has instructed us diplomats to try and turn around several such bans already in effect.

The toy companies are concerned that the bans could affect the sale of their products within the us apart from the immediate impacts on sales in Europe.

A decision by the 15-nation eu could come as early as next week. At issue are compounds known as phthalates. These are softening agents that provide a spongy, chewy feel when added to plastics. These also help plastics absorb the reds and yellows and other bright colours that most children find attractive.

Among the compounds that would be banned is one that has been voluntarily left out of all us products for 13 years. Other compounds being targeted by the eu , however, are key components of toys and other plastic products made and sold in the United States.

A Danish study has suggested that some phthalates, which are used not only in toys but strong plastic bags that contain intravenously-delivered medications and even blood, may cause cancer disrupt endocrine function or weaken the immune systems. Other studies have raised similar concerns and suggested that these may even cause liver and kidney damage and disruption in reproduction. But the studies were conducted only on animals and scientists are not quite sure as to how the chemicals will affect humans.

David Miller, president of the Toy Manufacturers of America, which represents the makers and importers of 85 per cent of the toys sold in the us