Keighley MP Kris Hopkins says he feels “deeply uncomfortable” at the prospect of the UK standing idly by while people suffer in Syria.

He spoke of his regret at the result of last Thursday night’s Commons vote in which MPs rejected a motion that military action could be required to protect Syrian civilians.

Mr Hopkins said: “The government motion made clear that, before any military action could be considered, UN weapons inspectors should have the opportunity to brief the Security Council, a UN Security Council resolution should be sought and the House of Commons would be asked to vote again.

“Given these safeguards, I had no hesitation in supporting the motion, and would do so again. But I must respect the will of Parliament – reflecting the views of the British people – which did not want to see our country becoming involved militarily in Syria.

“However, it cannot be denied the outcome of this vote was the one that Syria, Russia and Iran were hoping for.”

He added: “I feel deeply uncomfortable at the prospect of the UK standing idly by and allowing innocent people to suffer when we have the option to help them.”

South Craven Tory MP Julian Smith also supported the government motion.

He said: “I believe the Prime Minister was right to say we cannot stand idly by when faced with the illegal use of chemical weapons.

“If we allow their use to go unchecked, it could have major implications for the British national interest.”

But party colleague Philip Davies – MP for Shipley, which includes Cullingworth and Denholme – voted against the government.

He said: “Before any military action is taken, the full consequences have to be thought through. If limited action failed, what would happen then? Would we have walked away and looked weak or would we have escalated into a full war, which may include fighting Russia?

“I didn’t believe these vital issues had been fully thought through.”