21.   The protocol also called for speedy approval of measures such as international property and copyright laws to fullfill obligations under a customs agreement with the European Union.

22.   The Senate, set to begin debating it Friday, was also expected to give it speedy approval.

23.   Webb, the Senate energy committee chief, explained that the speedy approval was needed to prevent oil companies fromfurther raising oil prices.

24.   The bill was expected to win speedy approval by the Senate and be signed into law by President Bill Clinton.