| SOUTHPORT PAYS OUT 8 MILLION FOR IRAQ OCCUPATION... |
| Wednesday, 07 February 2007 | |
But its not going to our troops!Southport MP John Pugh has identified the cost of Government’s Bill for the ongoing military operations in Iraq. Liberal Democrat research has revealed that if spending continues at current levels it will reach over £5Bn by April this year – causing a cash crisis at the Ministry of Defence. The cost of the invasion of Iraq, which works out as £8million for every constituency in England, has affected other domestic services."I am sure many people in Southport might be able to think of better ways to use that money." John has repeated Lib Dem Sir Menzies Campbell’s call for a process of withdrawal from Iraq. John said, “This is not just about cost; it’s about Tony Blair recognising his huge mistake and not putting our brave, under-resourced soldiers at risk. Nobody can accuse them after three years of occupation of not doing enough to help reconstruct the country. The fact is they are suffering because they are expected to dig the government out of a the mess caused by lack of thought and anticipation. I voted against the military invasion of Iraq but M.P.s in the other parties by their votes handed our troops the short straw. "Parents of local servicemen have written to me with legitimate complaints believing their sons are being asked to do the impossible and paid less than average wages. Our troops should start coming home at the start of May, that would give them a chance for a proper and safe exit strategy.” |