Syria: follow what's happening today

29 August 2013

Live video of the debates is available below. The debate begins at 2.30pm.

Parliament has been recalled to debate a possible military intervention in Syria after allegations that chemical weapons have been used there.

The House of Commons Library has published several relevant briefings, including one which outlines the recent debate over intervention in Syria, the legality of arming the rebels, what the law says about parliament's approval of armed forces deployment, and how recalling parliament works.

MPs in the House of Commons begin their debate at 2:30pm and will debate the government's motion on Syria, which calls for a "strong humanitarian reponse" from the international community which "may, if necessary, require military action that is legal, proportionate and focused on saving lives...". It also says direct British involvement will only happen after another vote in the Commons at a later date.

The government today also published an outline of its legal position regarding possible military intervention in Syria.

MPs will also debate a Labour amendment which calls for military action only if UN inspectors have confirmed chemical weapons have been used by the Syrian regime, after the UN Security Council has subsequently voted on the matter, once there is a clear legal basis for action and its consequences for the region have been considered, and after the House of Commons votes on the UK's participation.

The House of Lords will debate Syria from 3:30pm. 64 Peers have put their names down to speak. The debate will be on a general motion about the use of chemical weapons in Syria and there will not be a vote.

How you can follow the debate: live video will be available on this page from 2.30pm

Unchecked Commons and Lords transcripts will begin to be available about three hours after the debates begin, with full official transcripts in Hansard tomorrow.

Anyone can go and watch the debate live in person as well.

Live video: House of Commons (from 2.30pm)

Live video: House of Lords (from 3.30pm)

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