It’s one of the most controversial free trade deals in recent history.<br /><br /> Opponents of the Transatlantic Trade and Investment says it puts the interests of big business first.<br /><br /> It was suggested that private companies could be allowed to sue governments before special tribunals.<br /><br /> The European Commission says judges should handle such cases.<br /><br /> It is now proposing to create an international court for the very purpose of settling trade disputes.<br /><br /> “We have really changed the content, and I hope that people can see that we have listened to the concerns, we have taken them into account, said Cecilia Malmström, the <br />EU trade commissioner.<br /><br /> “I hope that the serious people can see that we have really try to take on board the criticisms.”<br /><br /> Critics fear major multinationals from the US could use any investor dispute mechanism to try and challenge European laws on employment and consumer protection.
