US parties agree immigration deal There have been a series of protests against tougher laws Republicans and Democrats in the US Senate have reached a last-minute compromise on a new immigration bill. The breakthrough could clear the way for approval of legislation granting millions of illegal immigrants the right to stay in the US. President George Bush said he was encouraged by the development. The deal, which came after weeks of wrangling, now requires a full Senate vote that could take place before Friday night. "I'm pleased that Republicans and Democrats in the United States Senate are working together to get a comprehensive immigration bill," President Bush said in a statement welcoming the accord. Various requirements The deal would allow illegal immigrants who arrived in the US five years ago or earlier to be allowed to stay subject to various criteria, including a criminal background check. Those who have lived in the US for less than five years but more than two years would be able to get a temporary work visa - but they first must leave the country and would be fingerprinted and processed on their return. They would be given priority in applying for US residency over future immigrants entering as temporary workers. However, under the bill, millions of illegal immigrants who have been in the country for less than two years would be required to return to their countries of origin. Conservative senator Sam Brownback called the immigration debate "probably the most divisive issue in America today". "I hope this compromise ends up bringing us together, and I believe it can," he said. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/4885672.stm