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MP Short Threatens Resignation Over Blair Policy

By Anai Rhoads
Veriana.org

During a March 9th U.K. radio programme, MP Clare Short proceeded to call Blair's proposed actions against Iraq as "reckless". She went as far as telling the BBC Radio 4's Westminster Hour that she may resign if Blair continues on this path of war.

The outspoken Short has resigned twice since the 1991 Gulf War, and due to her important position in the U.K.'s Parliament, stepping down at this crucial point could be a significant blow to the government's balance.

Short is but one of four aides that are threatening to resign. The list includes Michael Jabez Foster, PPS to Lord Goldsmith, Cambridge MP Anne Campbell, PPS to Trade and Industry Patricia Hewitt, Great Yasmouth MP Tony Wright, PPS to Ruth Kelly.

The Rt. Hon Clare Short MP is Secretary of State for International Development. A former Civil Servant at the Home Office, she entered the House of Commons in 1983 as the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Midlands constituency of Birmingham Ladywood, which she has held since then, and which is the area where she grew up. She is also Chair of the Human Rights Committee of the Socialist International since 1996. [1]

Short has gained a great deal of respect from her peers, including Prime Minister Tony Blair. What effect this will have on the decision making, if any, is too soon to tell.

A March 17th deadline was set by Blair for Saddam to disarm Iraq of any weapons of mass destruction. Behind the scenes, many are speculating that other MPs will dismiss their seat in the parliament If the U.K. and U.S. follow through with plans for a military invasion against Iraq.

* Michael Jabez Foster, PPS to Lord Goldsmith, the Attorney General.

* Cambridge MP Anne Campbell, PPS to Trade and Industry Patricia Hewitt.

* Great Yasmouth MP Tony Wright, PPS to Ruth Kelly, the Treasure Minister.

[1] Biography: Rt. Hon Clare Short MP

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