MP raises issue in House of Commons today
Today, Andrew Bridgen MP and John Baron MP delivered a letter to Number 10, signed by 80 other Conservative MPs regarding Syria. The letter was organised by Andrew Bridgen, and calls on the Prime Minister to give his assurance that there will be a Parliamentary debate and vote before any arms from Britain are sent to Syrian anti-government forces. At the end of May, the Foreign Secretary and his French counterpart persuaded other EU foreign ministers to lift the-then EU arms embargo. No decision to send arms has yet been made. John raised the issue again today in the House of Commons with the Leader of the House. A photograph of John and Andrew delivering the letter to Number 10 is attached.
John said,
“It is essential Parliament is able to have its say before any weapons are sent to Syria. Given that this decision may be taken over the recess, the Prime Minister must undertake to recall Parliament if necessary.”
“The letter delivered today illustrates the strength of feeling within the Conservative Party. MPs from other parties also have strong feelings about this issue. Whether one agrees with arming the rebels or not, Parliament’s duty is to question the Government before we get more involved in another Middle Eastern conflict.”
Ends
Word Count: 214
Date: 6th June 2013
Notes to Editors:
- John asked the Leader of the House, Rt Hon Andrew Lansley MP, for these undertakings at Business Questions today – please see Hansard for the transcript.
- For further information, please see John’s press release of 3rd June [‘John Baron MP presses Prime Minister for debate and vote assurance over Syria’].
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