First hurdle cleared as MEPs approve Phil Hogan's appointment

Phil Hogan has cleared the first hurdle in his bid to become a new EU Commissioner.

MEPs at the European Parliament have voted to approve his appointment as the Commissioner of Agriculture.

His name will now go forward as part of the full team of Commissioners, who will face a vote by the entire European Parliament later this month.

Assuming the new Commission is approved, Phil Hogan will take office on November 1, and resign his seat as a TD.