MEPs remove obstacles in the controversial EU-US trade deal which forced them to abandon a plenary vote on the EU's negotiating position.

TTIP gridlock unblocked

https://api.multimedia.europarl.europa.eu/documents/20125/12075398/n005-150629-001-en.srt

the world's most far-reaching trade deal  between the US and the EU.

It's currently under negotiation  by the Commission,

but was heading nowhere after it was pulled  from the plenary agenda earlier this month

amid reports of big differences  within the Socialist group.

Now those differences are narrowing,  particularly on a clause known as ISDS

that would allow foreign investors to sue  countries if their interests are threatened.

It’s important  to replace the existing ISDS.

If this happens, it will help  Europe and the United States

to design new rules  on global trade and investment.

The sooner we pass this resolution  the better,

because then the Commission will have a  stronger mandate to negotiate with the US.

Across Europe, views on TTIP  are becoming more polarised.

Supporters say it’ll help build a new era  of prosperity and jobs in the US and the EU.

Opponents say it'll strengthen multinationals  at the expense of small businesses.

The next negotiating round  is due in Brussels in July.