US jobs plan:

Barack Obama outlines key proposals.

Persident Obama urged lawmakers to "pass this jobs plan right away"

President Barack Obama has begun outlining his crucial jobs plan in an effort to boost the flagging US economy - and his re-election hopes.

In a rare address to a joint session of Congress, President Obama is expected to propose a $300bn (£185bn) package.

The main elements are tipped to be an extension of payroll tax cuts, and tax incentives for businesses to hire.

US unemployment, currently jammed at 9.1%, is expected to dominate the 2012 presidential election campaign.

"I am sending this Congress a plan that you should pass right away. It's called the American Jobs Act," President Obama said.

"There should be nothing controversial about this piece of legislation. Everything in here is the kind of proposal that's been supported by both Democrats and Republicans - including many who sit here tonight. And everything in this bill will be paid for. Everything."

Mr Obama urged lawmakers to "pass this jobs plan right away".

The president said the proposals would help to further develop "a world-class transportation system" in the US "repair and modernise at least 35,000 schools".

He added: "Pass this jobs bill, and all small business owners will also see their payroll taxes cut in half next year."

The president wants to submit the bill to Congress next week.

Republicans have described it as Mr Obama's re-election plan, not a jobs proposal.

Democrats have been urging their opponents to do something and not just say no to everything.

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