Many polluters have been ordered to be shut down or be under a strict inspection.

But he insisted the management had followed the law to the letter and been subject to "strict inspections."

He criticized the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for not requiring utilities to make stricter inspections when they receive potentially mislabeled bolts and fasteners purchased for use in reactors.

Earlier this month, 10 team sponsors sent an open letter to the International Cycling Union emphasizing that the sport was "in danger" and asking for stricter medical inspections.

International pressure on Iran to submit to stricter inspections of its nuclear program coincides with protests in several Iranian cities challenging the government's legitimacy.

Mr. Espy has denied engaging in any misconduct and Tyson officials say they support stricter inspections and were not trying to influence him.

While only several months ago few could imagine North Korea's signing such a document, the wording does not call for the kind of strict inspection that the Pentagon has been seeking.

It covers all the seas surrounding Europe and introduces strict inspections on ships visiting EU ports, also known as port state control.

However, it is a step forward, with stricter inspections for the manufacturers of active ingredients constituting a particularly valuable feature.

Other suggestions at the hearing included requiring seat belts for buses, stricter inspections and more rigorous licensing standards for drivers.