1961 MERCURY will be reduced to Ford size, sell at Ford prices. New Mercury will be built on a Ford body shell but have its own styling. Ford follows lead of Dodge Dart, which is built on a Plymouth chassis, is now Chrysler's best-selling car.

U.S. WILL SPEND $2.9 billion in road building during fiscal year starting July 1, about $173 million more than last year, owing to increased revenues from federal gasoline tax.

AIRMAIL SWITCH of military mail between Europe and U.S. will be made from Military Air Transport Service to American commercial airlines. Move will bring lines about $4.7 million more annually, is first in planned series to turn more of MATS business over to civilian carriers.

U.S. GOLD LOSS, which at one time reached $2.3 billion a year, is down to trickle. In first quarter nation lost only $50 million, lowest since drain started in 1958, as exports rose and foreigners invested cash in U.S. in high-interest government notes.

ADDIS ABABA HILTON will be built in the Ethiopian capital for government and operated by Hilton ho tels. Air-conditioned 250-room hotel will cost $4,900,000, is scheduled for completion in 1962.

VOLKSWAGEN SALES in first quarter were 68% higher than same period last year. West German-made car now accounts for 29% of total foreign-car sales in U.S.

INVESTMENTS IN CHILE of $250 million over next four years are being planned by Anaconda and Kennecott copper companies. Since copper production helps finance government's expenses, the money will aid in restoring Chile's earthquake-damaged economy.

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