The UK will oversee financial services in the new 28-strong European Commission - a surprise appointment expected to please the UK government, BBC News reported.

The job goes to Jonathan Hill, former leader of the House of Lords.

France also got a powerful post - ex-Finance Minister Pierre Moscovici, a socialist, will run EU economic policy.

There has been intense national rivalry over the top jobs. There are seven vice-presidents for key areas such as growth, better regulation and energy.

Three of the seven powerful new posts have gone to women.

Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker announced the details, saying the new team was "geared to give Europe its new start".