Protesters rally against UK Syrian airstrikes

Thousands of anti-war protesters have gathered outside Downing Street to urge MPs to vote against launching air strikes on Islamic State forces (IS) in Syria.

Actor Mark Rylance, former Respect MP George Galloway and musician Brian Eno were among those to address the demonstrators who waved placards and chanted; “Don’t bomb Syria” in Whitehall, central London.

The Stop the War Coalition organised the event as David Cameron gave his strongest indication yet that he will call a vote on British airstrikes in Syria despite Jeremy’s Corbyn’s opposition to action.

Organisers said they were expecting around 5,000 people to join the rally in London, while smaller protests were being staged at 20 locations across the country including Bristol, Coventry, Manchester, Milton Keynes, Swansea and Norwich.

Speaking today David Cameron said that the UK can’t afford to wait for a political solution.

“My argument is yes there is military action that is being taken over the skies of Syria. That can help,” the prime minister stated.

“And Britain should be part of that action because of the extra resources and abilities that we can bring.

“Also we shouldn’t be outsourcing the protection of our own people to our allies. We should be part of it. But you ask what follows?”

“What needs to happen so badly in Syria is for there to be a transition to a government that can represent all of the country.”