Tories demand vote on sending weapons to Syria Tory MPs have expressed unease about Britain's escalating role in the continuing war after Britain helped secure a relaxation of an EU arms embargo. At least five Cabinet ministers, including Nick Clegg, the Deputy Prime Minister, are also reported to have raised "serious reservations" about any significant move to increase Britain's involvement in the long-running conflict. Mr Clegg warned that Britain should not act alone arming the rebels and act in step with the US. I am writing to seek assurances that prior to any decision being taken to supply arms to the Syrian National Coalition or any other groups in Syria, a full debate and vote will be held in Parliament and that in addition to this, if Parliament is in recess it should be recalled to facilitate this important debate. I believe the division and sensitivity this issue evokes both with colleagues and the general public dictates that it is a matter that needs to be subjected to full Parliamentary scrutiny and debate before we potentially become further embroiled in another Middle Eastern conflict. I appreciate that in some matters of defence, time does not always allow for a Parliamentary debate; however I do no believe this constraint applies to this potential course of action. I and the undersigned would be grateful if you could pledge that any decision on whether to arm the National Syrian Council or any other group in Syria will be subject to full Parliamentary scrutiny and that you would request a recall of Parliament if necessary to facilitate this. Andrew Lansley, leader of the Commons, confirmed MPs would be given the chance to vote on any decision.