Washington  - The US House of Representatives on Friday narrowly approved a historic climate bill that for the first time would force companies to limit greenhouse-gas emissions blamed for global warming.

The 219-212 vote marks a major victory for President Barack Obama, who has made global warming and clean energy legislation a top priority for his administration.

But the legislation has deeply divided US politicians and the outcome of the House vote was uncertain to the very last minute. Only 8 Republicans voted in favour and 43 Democrats voted against the measure.

The bill now moves to the Senate, which could have an even tougher time getting a bill passed.

The United States has long been under pressure from other governments to take stronger action to curb its emissions, which was resisted by former president George W Bush.

The Obama administration hopes it will bolster the country's bargaining position at a critical meeting in Copenhagen in December, where governments are expected to thrash out a new global treaty to combat climate change.

The legislation would develop a so-called cap-and-trade system, which already exists in Europe and creates a market for carbon dioxide emissions that cause global warming. Companies would get pollution allowances that can be traded between dirtier and cleaner firms. (dpa)