News Summary: France EU-US trade deal veto threat

VETO THREAT: France is threatening to veto any free-trade deal between the European Union and the U.S. that includes the film, radio or TV industries.

ARTISTIC LISCENSE: The audiovisual sectors are traditionally excluded from global free-trade agreements under what is known as the "cultural exception," which allows governments to subsidize and protect them. In general, free-trade agreements limit or ban such support.

STICKING POINT: Ireland, which holds the EU's rotating presidency, says the cultural exception is the last major issue before the negotiating mandate can be approved Friday. Together the U.S. and EU make up 30 percent of global trade.