MPs demand vote on action

Fifty-seven MPs signed a Commons motion yesterday demanding a full vote on any military action before British troops are committed to war in the Middle East.

Tony Wright, Labour chairman of the Commons Public Administration Committee – who put forward the motion – said: "We believe Parliament should vote on any military action against Iraq before any such action is embarked upon. Whether such action is supported or opposed, Parliament must have its say."

Robin Cook, the Leader of the Commons, said the Government was ready to recall Parliament if the United Nations Security Council passed a fresh resolution next week during the one-week parliamentary recess.