Hawke to Step Down

Comptroller of the Currency John Hawke Jr. has decided to step down as the chief supervisor of national banks on Oct. 13 when his five-year term ends."I am pleased to report as I take my leave that the [national banking] system is strong and the national bank charter is strong and vibrant," the comptroller says in a letter to President Bush. Deputy Comptroller Julie Williams is expected to serve as acting comptroller until the Senate confirms Mr. Hawke's successor.