Corbyn decides to give Labour MPs free vote on Syria airstrikesLabour leader demands two-day Commons debateDiane Abbott says a Labour free vote would give Cameron victoryLunchtime summary
2.47pm GMTLabour has released the text of a letter Jeremy Corbyn has sent to David Cameron on Syria. Here it is in full.[br]Dear David,As of this morning we occupy not had a clear proposal from the government on when you draw to bring forward a motion to the House on air strikes in Syria or on arrangements for the debate. 2.28pm GMTHere is some more Twitter reaction to Jeremy Corbyn’s free vote decision.
From the politics academic Rob FordFree vote for MPs plus "strong anti-bombing" party position sounds like Corbynists are building a de-choice argument for rebels.
Plus side for Corbyn of free vote: in keeping with 'new politics' + shows respect for consciences of others. 1/2Make no mistake- this is the right decision in the circumstances. But poor handling has hurt leader's standing with his supporters.first-rate to hear there will be a free vote on Syria. MPs should vote with their consciences.
By the sounds of it, the Labour Party will occupy a position but will not request the Parliamentary Labour Party or Shadow Cabinet to support it.
It's looking like some sort of "two and a half line whip" as I was saying earlier...
Labour policy against but shadow cabinet won't be sackedShadow cabinet member told me that free vote would leave Labour "unfit for government". https://t.co/xCqE6D6UaFContinue reading...
Source: theguardian.com