Fast-track trade bill clears Senate hurdle

A proposed bill to give Barack Obama "fast track" trade authority cleared a crucial hurdle in the Senate on Tuesday, paving the way for a final vote

The US president is aiming to complete a 12-nation Pacific trade deal and the bill would allow him to present the proposed Trans-Pacific Partnership to Congress for an up-or-down vote, without amendments.

The bill, which was approved by the House of Representatives last week, received 60 "yes" votes, the number needed to advance.