Transition officials said they intended to fight for the increase.

"I am a transition official, and these areas are not for public discussion."

Transition officials said they are well aware how even their comments carry new weight.

Transition officials said pension questions might not prove an obstacle.

"I don't think he plans on going in there and making major Administration foreign policy pronouncements," a transition official said.

"Originally it was supposed to be a couple of dozen people," said one transition official.

Transition officials said both legislators were satisfied with his comments, but the men could not be reached tonight.

The transition officials found no easy choices, they and Administration officials said.

Transition officials now say it could take months for the new Administration to meet that goal, if it does so at all.

Transition officials would not say how long that ban would last.