Ritchie challenges Prime Minister on legality of Syria action
SDLP MP for South Down Margaret Ritchie has questioned Prime Minister David Cameron on the definition of ‘action that is legal under international law’ in the context of UK and international intervention in Syria.
Ritchie said, “The SDLP believes that an internationally-led, political, multilateral solution is urgently needed to tackle the humanitarian crisis in Syria.
“The Government must be fully compliant with the requirements of international law and protect the lives and safety of civilian populations.
“The Prime Minister has called for greater military action in Syria, including the use of air strikes, but has thus far been unclear on the Government’s definition of ‘action that is legal under international law.’
“It is vital that the British Government’s actions are seen to respect the confines of international law, making any legal uncertainty unacceptable.
She added, “The Government must therefore publish a description of the legal advice it receives for actions in Syria at the earliest possible opportunity, so that this basis can be scrutinised and held to account by Parliamentarians and civil society.”
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