RAF war planes are poised to launch air strikes against Islamic State (IS) jihadists after Parliament gave the green light for military action.

MPs voted by 524 to 43 – a majority of 481 – to endorse attacks on the militants in Iraq in support of the United States- led coalition, with Labour backing the Government motion.

All Hampshire’s MPs, of all parties, backed military action.

The vote clears the way for RAF Tornado GR4 fighter bombers stationed in Cyprus to begin combat operations as soon as suitable targets are identified.

Opening the debate, Prime Minister David Cameron told MPs – meeting in emergency session – that Britain had a “ duty” to join the military campaign as IS posed a direct threat to the country.

Hampshire MPs who spoke in the debate were among the overwhelming majority of MPs who backed military action.

Conservative Steve Brine (Winchester and Chandler's Ford) said: “ Some of those who have contacted me give voice to the fear of the consequences of action.

“But is it not the point, and the reason that we have been recalled today, that the consequences of non-action - as I believe this House proved last summer - are far, far worse?”

Fellow Tory Julian Lewis (New Forest East) said: “I will be supporting the motion, with reluctance and a heavy heart, because I know that there are no good outcomes.

“If our strategy is to get anywhere in the long term, the Arab League and the regional powers must step up and make their contribution. We cannot do it, because that would play into the hands of the Islamists.”