Over all, industrial production is 4.5 percent higher than a year earlier, with the index standing at 130.7 percent of its 1977 base of 100.

The changes meant the industrial production index in January stood at 140.9 percent of its 1977 base, down from 142.5 percent a month earlier.

The various changes left the index at 190.6 percent of its 1967 base of 100.

The Fed said its industrial production index in July stood at 109.9 percent of its 1987 base.

The various changes left the index of leading indicators at 144.6 percent of its 1982 base of 100.

The Fed's industrial production index now stands at 141.1 percent of its 1977 base, 5 percent higher than a year earlier.

"Ninety-nine percent of the president's base will unite behind him if he pushed the amendment," he said.

"To attack 25, 30 percent of your base just isn't smart."

The Belarus Government can give away tractors because it dominates some 90 percent of the nation's industrial base.

Before rounding, the consumer price index for all urban consumers rose 1.1084719 last month, to 127.4 percent of its 1982-1984 base.