After Syria defeat, UK minister warns on retreat

[August 30, 2013]  LONDON (AP) -- Treasury chief George Osborne is warning that Britain should not turn its back on the world after a stunning parliamentary defeat over a government motion for military intervention in Syria.

He told BBC on Friday that he understands that many lawmakers and British citizens do not want U.K. military involvement in Syria, where the government is suspected of using chemical weapons against civilians.

He said there will be "national soul-searching" about Britain's global role after the 'no' vote.

Prime Minister David Cameron had sought to rally Parliament behind plans for military action against the regime of President Bashar Assad, but failed to win a majority.

He said he will respect Parliament's view, indicating Britain would not for now take a military role.

[Associated Press]

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