Irish MEP Mairead McGuinness has failed in her bid to secure her grouping's nomination for the presidency of the European Parliament.

The EPP selected its candidate this evening, opting for Italian MEP Antonio Tajani. McGuinness was aiming to become the first Irish person since Pat Cox to attain what is one of the most prestigious and influential roles in European politics.

Antonio Tajani received 94 votes to Mairead McGuinness's 57, and becomes the largest grouping's nominee. Frenchman Alain Lamassoure finished in third place with 34.

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