Isis: David Cameron says we must bomb jihadists in Syria 'to stop terrorism here in Britain'

A vote on airstrikes could take place as soon as next week

David Cameron speaks during Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons, London (PA)

David Cameron will argue other nations should not be expected to "carry the burdens and the risks" of targeting Isis in Syria "to stop terrorism here in Britain", as he calls for an extension of British bombing raids into the terror group's heartland.

The Prime Minister will set out the case for RAF jets and drones to strike targets in Syria, telling MPs Isis must not be allowed a "safe haven" in which to grow more dangerous.

"We need a comprehensive response which seeks to deal with the threat that Isil poses to us directly, not just through the measures we are taking at home, but by dealing with Isil on the ground in the territory that it controls," Mr Cameron will say.

The atrocities in Paris have strengthened his resolve on the issue, and a vote on airstrikes could take place as soon as next week.

In a Commons statement he is expected to say: "Whether or not to use military force is one of the most significant decisions that any government takes. The need to do so most often arises because of a government's first duty: the responsibility to protect its citizens."

Mr Cameron will set out a seven-point strategy for Syria, which includes maintaining the UK's counter-terrorism capabilities, advancing a political settlement in Syria, delivering a credible government for the war-torn nation and defeating Isis through "military and wider action".

The strategy will also involve continued humanitarian work, planning for the stabilisation and reconstruction of Syria and working with other nations to mitigate the impact Isis has had on the stability of the region.

"It is in Syria, in Raqqa, that Isil has its headquarters, and it is from Raqqa that some of the main threats against this country are planned and orchestrated," he will say. "We have to deny a safe haven for Isil in Syria.

"The longer Isil is allowed to grow in Syria, the greater the threat it will pose. It is wrong for the United Kingdom to sub-contract its security to other countries, and expect the aircrews of other nations to carry the burdens and the risks of striking Isil in Syria to stop terrorism here in Britain.

"That is why I believe that we should now take the decision to extend British airstrikes against Isil into Syria, as an integral part of our comprehensive strategy to degrade Isil and reduce the threat it poses to us."

Additional reporting by Press Association