Congress backs bill to aid US computer chip firms in bid to counter China

Semiconductors are vital in the operation of modern cars (PA)

US politicians have passed a 280 billion dollars (£230 billion) package to boost the semiconductor industry and scientific research in a bid to create more high-tech jobs in the United States and help it better compete with international rivals like China.

The House approved the bill by a solid margin of 243-187, sending the measure to President Joe Biden to be signed into law and providing the White House with a major domestic policy victory.