BURT CALLS ON COUNTY MPS TO APOLOGISE FOR IRAQ VOTE

11.27.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 25th Mar 2008

West Worcestershire's Liberal Democrat Parliamentary candidate, Richard Burt has called on county MPs, Sir Michael Spicer and Peter Luff to apologise for their support for the invasion of Iraq.

Speaking to party members today, Richard Burt said:

"Five years ago, the Labour Government led Britain into the war in Iraq. The Conservatives were the cheerleaders for military action. And MPs from both parties attacked the Liberal Democrats for our opposition to the invasion.

"It is now clear that the war in Iraq and the occupation of the country were the worst decisions taken by Britain in foreign policy in living memory. Sir Michael Spicer and Peter Luff backed this decision. They voted for the war in 2003.

"Five years on from the start of the invasion, 175 British troops have lost their lives, £7 billion of our money has been lost on this appalling venture and, according to many estimates, 600,000 Iraqis have died as a result.

"Sir Michael and Peter should apologise to the people of Worcestershire for their part in authorising this disastrous military venture.

"Without the support of 146 Conservative MPs the Labour Government would have lost the vote in Parliament and the UK would not have joined in this ill-judged war.