The European Community criticized the landmark U.S....

The European Community criticized the landmark U.S. trade bill and warned that the measure may prompt “strong reactions” from America’s trading partners. Willy De Clercq, the EC’s top trade official, said in a statement that the measure contains “several protectionist elements and increases the possibilities of recourse to unilateral action.” He said the bill, expected to be signed shortly by President Reagan, raises questions about whether the United States is “really committed to the success” of international trade negotiations, known as the Uruguay Round. Major provisions of the bill would streamline the system under which the U.S. government imposes import curbs to protect American business and retaliate against trade violations.