Hoon Rules Out Parliamentary Vote On Iraq Until After Fighting Begins

12.00.00am GMT Thu 6th Feb 2003

Liberal Democrats call for a Parliamentary vote before troops are sent into conflict in Iraq.

Responding to question from Paul Keetch MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Defence Secretary, Geoff Hoon, ruled out a substantive vote in Parliament ahead of any military action in the Gulf. Mr. Keetch said:

"If we are to send our troops into a potential conflict, they are entitled to know they have the support of Parliament. The Government now have all but ruled out that possibility. "

"It's a sign of the Government's nervousness that they won't let MPs vote and underlines their contempt for Parliament."