MPs backing for air strikes condemned
‘Parliament should decide’say SNP group
The Prime Minister’s decision to join US-led airstrikes on suspected chemical weapons sites in Syria at the weekend has been backed by Stirling MP Stephen Kerr.
RAF Tornado bombers joined US and French forces for the strikes on sites near Damascus and Homs last Saturday. It followed an alleged chemical weapons attack on Douma on April 7.
But Stirling SNP this week said the decision to carry out the airstrikes should have been made by Parliament – and accused the Prime Minister of being scared to consult MPs on the matter.
Conservative MP Mr Kerr said following Monday’s emergency debate in Westminster: “The use of chemical weapons in Douma killed up to 75 people, including young children in circumstances of pure horror and that is why chemical weapons must not be allowed to become a normal part of war anywhere in the world.
“The UK must act swiftly, alongside our allies in France and the United States, and in a targeted, precise way that deters the future use of these weapons. The Government does not seek regime change, nor will this intervention extend the scope of our involvement in the conflict and that is why I support them in their actions in Syria.”
Labour MPs had been divided over the airstrikes. Their leader Jeremy Corbyn said a war powers law was necessary, requiring the government to seek the approval of Parliament before taking military action in future.
Stirling East SNP councillor Alison Laurie said this week: “These were actions taken by a weak Prime Minister who was too scared to consult a democratically-elected Parliament before ordering further military action in Syria.
“The situation in Syria is dire for many who live there, and the chemical attack on citizens is a disgusting act. Without any doubt, there must be a robust response from the international community.
“It should have been for Parliament to decide on military action from UK service personnel, not for the Prime Minister to await the latest Tweet from the US President.
“For Stephen Kerr to support this action without Parliament’s approval will make many people question why he is paid £75,000 to represent Stirling as an MP, considering that he appears happy for Theresa May to make his mind up for him.
“The SNP will not support any action that will lead to an escalation of violence or deepens conflict. Sadly, Labour MPs are so divided on this matter that they abstained on their own call for Parliament to be consulted in future.”