The public officials are not dealing with a question of tax policy and its consequences, but rather with one of political principle.

For the first time in its history, the United Nations has issued written guidelines on how its officials will deal with the news media.

Since personnel costs are at the core of school spending, officials must deal with increases in salaries, pensions and health care premiums.

And finally, it noted that salaries "pale in comparison" to those of others whom the elected officials must deal with day to day.

Those talks are expected to resume next week after having been adjourned while officials dealt with matters concerning the merged staff.

Both cases raise questions of how elected officials deal with the blurry line between their official duties and their political careers.

Cabinet-level officials will also deal with management problems, said Richard Leclair, the organization spokesman.

Mr. Tonna said the goal of the Sunday rally was to encourage elected officials to deal with the laborers' problems.

This official will deal with Congress, consumer groups, professional groups and the press, as well as handling publications.

Her finding last week that officials had dealt with some claims "recklessly" and unlawfully has focused new attention on the overall issue.