Sen. Bob Packwood was said to be considering resigning Friday amid an ethics investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct. The Justice Department began an investigation into possible criminal misconduct by the Oregon Republican, Clinton administration sources said.

The sources, who requested anonymity, said the department is investigating whether Packwood acted on behalf of a Japanese company accused of unfair trade practices. The sources said the criminal investigation is not related to the sexual misconduct allegations.

Attorney James Fitzpatrick told reporters that Packwood's resignation "is under consideration" but added, "I don't know when it will be resolved.

"I don't think anyone is pressing anyone at this moment. This is a matter that is simply under consideration and no decision has been made," Fitzpatrick told a news conference.

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The administration sources said the criminal investigation focuses on whether a lobbyist for Mit-su-bishi Electric Co. offered Packwood's wife a job in return for Packwood defending the company against unfair trade practice charges.

Several senators said Packwood had been on the verge of resigning but changed his mind.

"It may have been considered a couple of days back. He's not resigning tonight," Sen. Thad Cochran, R-Miss., said.

Cochran said he heard "from another senator" that Packwood received a Justice Department subpoena.

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