EXHIBIT 23.1
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                  CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS




   As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the use of our
   report dated January 27, 1999, included in Newell Co.'s Form 10-K for
   the year ended December 31, 1998 and to all references to our Firm
   included in this Registration Statement.



                                 /s/ ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
                            ----------------------------
                                 ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP



   Milwaukee, Wisconsin 
   March 19, 1999