Gore supports a woman's right to have an abortion in all circumstances and opposes Republican efforts to outlaw a procedure of late-term abortions that opponents have called "partial birth abortion."

Defence

Gore would move ahead cautiously to examine limited missile defence programme, streamline Pentagon and work for steady increase in military spending. Would end "Don't ask, don't tell" policy on homosexuals in military.

Bush would increase defence spending, give military personnel better pay and conditions. On missile defence, he would pursue ambitious programmes to protect US and allies from rogue nations. Would retain "Don't ask, don't tell."

Environment

Gore supports the Kyoto treaty on global warming, would encourage new energy technologies and provide tax breaks to companies and individuals switching to environmentally friendly homes, cars and businesses. He would preserve Alaska's Arctic Wildlife Preserve.

Bush opposes the Kyoto treaty, would give tax breaks for ethanol use and supports state efforts to reduce pollution from coal-fired power stations. He supports opening the Alaska reserve to oil and gas exploration.

Taxes

Gore backs tax cuts for middle and lower-income Americans, including an $80bn cut over 10 years for married couples, an increase in earned income tax credit by up to $500 a year for families with more than three children and will provide tax breaks to help fund college education.

Bush proposes a $483bn tax-cut package over five years, would simplify the income tax system eliminating one bracket, would cut rates for all Americans, increase child credits, phase out the estate tax.

Healthcare

Gore would provide health insurance for all children and move slowly towards universal coverage. He would work for a Patient's Bill of Rights, allowing them to sue health organisations, and he would provide a $3,000 tax credit for prescription benefit for the elderly.

Bush would reduce the number of uninsured by subsidising their ability to buy private coverage. He would expand medical savings accounts and make the cost of long-term care tax deductible.