Cook quits over Iraq

2003-03-17 20:34

London - Britain's leader of the commons, Robin Cook, has resigned from the cabinet over proposed military action in Iraq.

The former British foreign secretary handed in his resignation minutes before a cabinet meeting in Downing Street on Monday.

He will make a personal statement to MPs later in the evening, detailing the reasons for his decision.

Cook was widely expected to announce his departure.

"It is expected he will be replaced as Leader of the House by Labour's Chief Whip Hilary Armstrong." said Sky's foreign editor Adam Boulton.

There are strong rumours that International Development Secretary Claire Short will stay in her post, despite labelling Tony Blair "reckless" last week.

"The speculation is that she has been persuaded not to quit over the crisis as she will have an important part to play in the rebuilding of Iraq after any conflict," said Boulton.

Cook's resignation could inflame anti-war Labour MPs into a massive show of dissent if Blair decides to allow another debate on the crisis in the Commons.

They are expected to table an amendment stating there is no moral justification for war without a second resolution.

Many Labour MPs who did not vote against the government in the first debate are predicted to change sides, dwarfing the last rebellion of 121.

The debate may be held on Tuesday.

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