Bush sets sight on White House

The Governor of Texas, George W.

Bush, has formally accepted the Republican Party's nomination for November's presidential election, telling Americans he would return civility, respect and decency to Washington politics.

At the climax of the party's national convention in Philadelphia, Mr Bush accused President Clinton of having presided over the erosion of American power and influence.

In a speech which dwelt little on foreign policy, Mr Bush did say that if elected, he would deploy a missile defence system, which has provoked widespread international criticism, especially by Russia and China.

He said now was the time to defend the American people, not to defend outdated treaties. On domestic issues, Mr Bush promised tax cuts, and more spending on health and the elderly. In opinion polls, Mr Bush has consistently led his Democratic Party opponent, the vice-president, Al Gore.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service