Local MP's speak out about going to war

SOUTH Cheshire's MPs spoke to the Guardian this week of their doubts about sending British troops into war against Saddam Hussain.

But despite their concerns, all politicians insisted that the Iraqi ruler represents a threat that cannot be ignored.

Veteran MP for Crewe and Nantwich Gwyneth Dunwoody said we should wait for United Nations backing before going to war in the Gulf.

She said: "I do think it is important that we have a second resolution from the United Nations.

"I don't believe that people need more persuasion to be convinced that Saddam Hussain is a very dangerous man, and I think they would go along with the resolution."

Congleton MP Ann Winterton, whose constituency covers Sandbach and Holmes Chapel, said: "I support the UK government and the USA in putting maximum pressure on Saddam Hussein who has used weapons of mass destruction on his neighbours and his own people.

"Iraq must be made to comply with UN Resolutions or else what is the point of having them.

"Whilst I accept that Iraq is not immediately a direct threat to the UK, if it is allowed to develop nuclear weapons then it will pose a deadly threat to peace and security worldwide.

"The duty of a British government is to protect its citizens at home and abroad against acts of terrorism and this cannot be achieved, as history has demonstrated, by appeasement."

Stephen O'Brien MP, whose Eddisbury constituency includes Leighton and parts of Crewe said he shared a 'deep anxiety' about sending troops, but felt confident they would be up to the task.

He said: "However, before that, Saddam Hussain's regime and his weapons of mass destruction are issues that must be dealt with and it is necessary for the evidence to be put clearly before my constituents but also to the United Nations Security Council.

"I support UN resolution 1441 and I am in no doubt about the very heavy burden on MPs of every party in considering with the utmost care these issues which affect the country and world peace."