Elicited

Democratic presidential hopeful Al Gore’s proposed long-termenergy policy has elicited a ho-hum response from independent oiland natural gas producers, who contend it “falls far short” oninitiatives needed to boost domestic energy production.

The signing by the United States last week of the Kyotoagreement limiting greenhouse gas emissions elicited jeers onCapitol Hill and in some energy circles. The move was seen as “moreof a gesture of goodwill” to encourage commitments from developingcountries that are attending the conference now underway inArgentina, according to Capitol Hill and gas industry sources. Theyseriously doubt President Clinton will submit the controversialaccord to the Senate, which is sharply opposed to it.