Boost for Clinton as Senate approves deficit-cutting plan

In a big boost for the White House, the US Senate yesterday adopted a budget resolution supporting President Clinton's programme for cutting the federal deficit by almost dollars 500bn (pounds 333bn) over five years. It was opposed by only two Democrats and by every Republican, David Usborne reports from Washington.

Senators also tackled an associated proposal to launch a dollars 16.3bn job-creation package to help stimulate the economy. Though more controversial, it was expected to win approval. Debate on details of the plan, which will require spending cuts and some tax increases, will not go before Congress until the autumn.