Controversial fast-track trade bill clears procedural hurdle in US Senate

Senators vote 65-33 to start debate on TPP billDemocrats secure votes on Africa trade rules and currency manipulationThe US Senate moved ahead with an important procedural vote to allow President Barack Obama to “fast-track” a controversial free trade deal on Thursday.By a vote of 65-33, the Senate voted to start debate on a bill that would allow Obama to submit the proposed Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) to Congress on an up-or-down vote. The trade agreement is a key priority of the Obama