That broad settlement - if one can be reached - would probably include fines against each of the firms and more independence for their research departments.

The project may have a place in a broader territorial settlement.

Either way, the Baker approach calls on the parties to take steps to reduce tensions now and offer suggestions for a broader settlement later.

So transit officials, desperate to stave off a $1.40 fare, are trying to broker a broader settlement.

In an effort to resolve the divorce case and three other lawsuits, a broad settlement was reached in July 1987.

The company agreed this spring to explain its charges more clearly as part of a broad settlement with 44 state attorneys general.

"We have no interest into entering into any kind of broad global settlement," he said.

Right now, there are two choices: Let the fight continue on many fronts or reach a broad settlement.

The agreement was the first stage in a broad settlement that lawyers for each side are trying to work out.

That opens the way to talks on a broad settlement, which could take weeks or months to achieve.