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LequteMan
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The U.K.’s Prime Minister David Cameron was dealt a blow yesterday as the government lost a vote—by a tally of 285 to 272—that would have supported in principle military intervention in Syria.
Mr. Cameron said it is clear that the British Parliament, reflecting the view of the British people, doesn't want to see the U.K. get involved in military action and "the government will act accordingly."
The outcome marks a significant moment in British politics—it is highly unusual for a prime minister to be defeated on foreign policy.
It is also a rare setback for U.S.-U.K. relations as the U.K. has rarely if ever parted ways with the U.S. on such a significant strategic issue in recent decades.
While the government doesn't require parliamentary approval to take military action, it would now be politically difficult to do so.
A further parliamentary vote had been due to take place early next week on whether the U.K. should be directly involved in that action.
A spokesman for the prime minister confirmed that the U.K. now won't take part in the Syrian action.