MEPs in the International Trade Committee adopted their position on two legislative proposals that eliminate most tariffs on industrial and agricultural goods from the US, by 29 votes in favour, 9 against and 1 abstention.

Parliament’s rapporteur for the file Bernd Lange (S&D, DE), said: “Today we have reached a broad majority behind a strong text that aims to provide a dose of stability, fairness and firmness in our trade relationship with the United States. Our message is clear: we will not be taking any final decision without clarity. Parliament intends to remain in the driving seat and have the last word on the application of the deal.

“With this in mind, we have agreed to a clear, multi-tiered safety net addressing key shortcomings of the Commission proposal.

Suspension and sunrise clauses

“First, we have made clear that any tariff imposed on the EU or one of its member states because of their foreign policy decisions is unacceptable. In that regard we updated and…