A Labor split over the prospect of a military campaign against Iraq is growing amid reports of Cabinet divisions over possible action. Ministers are reported to have told British premier Tony Blair at their weekly meeting that all possible avenues must be explored before any conflict with Baghdad could be considered.
The prime minister office on Friday denied reports that one or possibly two ministers might resign if action goes ahead. It said the cabinet had undertaken a detailed discussion on the security situation surrounding Iraq.
On Friday, prime minister office reiterated Blair's view that the threat of weapons of mass destruction being used by rogue countries was an issue which had to be addressed.
A spokesman said it was still a matter for discussion and that no decisions had been taken by the United States.
According to the BBC, tension has grown over the prospect of military action in Iraq after Blair raised the issue during the recent Commonwealth summit in Australia. Robin Cook, the former foreign secretary ,told MPs the prospect of bombing Baghdad was a "hypothetical outcome" and a decision was not expected for "many months".
Cook and International Development Secretary Clare Short are thought to be among those who are against UK support for military strikes. (Albawaba.com)
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