US blocks last chancepetition by 67 countries for second term

The United States forced the fourth judge off the World Trade Organization's appeals body on Wednesday, rejecting a last-chance petition by 67 countries who sought to reappoint him for a second term.

The WTO appeals body normally has seven judges and needs a minimum of three to function. It was already down to four because of the U.S. block on new appointments or reappointments. A judge from Mauritius, Shree Baboo Chekitan Servansing, whose term expires on Sept. 30, will be forced out by the U.S. veto.