EXHIBIT 23.1 CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the incorporation of our report dated November 19, 2001, included in this Form 10-K, into the Company's previously filed Registration Statements No. 33-52065 and 333-74255 both on Form S-8. /s/ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP Houston, Texas December 19, 2001