White House predicts 3.5 percent growth in 2005

WASHINGTON, Dec 17 (AFP) - The White House announced Friday it expects the US economy to grow 3.5 percent in 2005, a moderation from 3.9 percent this year.
"The administration today released its economic forecast for 2005, showing that the economy is fundamentally strong, with growth expected to continue at solid rates," the White House said in a statement.
The economic forecast, based on annual growth in the last quarter of the year, was drawn up by the Council of Economic Advisors, the Treasury Department and the Office of Management and Budget.

12/17/2004 17:15 GMT - AFP