Will make case for Syria strikes to MPs on Thursday: Cameron

Prime Minister David Cameron said he will address MPs on Thursday to make his case for Britain to join air strikes against the Islamic State group in Syria before a vote on the issue expected at a later date.
"On Thursday I will come to this house to make a further statement" on the air campaign, Cameron said today, as he announced increases in military spending to counter growing threats including IS.
"As the murders on the streets of Paris reminded us so starkly, Isil (IS) is not some remote threat," he said, referring also to the killings of British tourists at a Tunisian beach resort in July by a lone gunman.

Cameron also announced details of a plan in case of major terror attacks like the ones in Paris on November 13 in which 130 people were killed.
"I can tell the House today that we have put in place a significant new contingency plan to deal with major terrorist attacks," he said.
"Under this new operation, up to 10,000 military personnel will be available to support the police in dealing with the type of shocking terrorist attack we have seen in Paris," he said.

In a speech to parliament, Cameron pledged an extra 12 billion pound (USD 18.2 billion, 17.1 billion euros) for the military.

"This is vital at a time when the threats to our country are growing," he said.
He also underlined that increased security would help the British economy.
"Our prosperity depends on trade around the world. Engagement is not an optional extra," he said.