Diplomats prepare Libya resolution

Britain is co-drafting a United Nations resolution to impose a no-fly zone over Libya as the international community edges closer to military intervention in the North African country.

UK and French diplomats are working on the wording to be ready to go before the Security Council if evidence emerges that Colonel Muammar Gaddafi is using air power against civilians.

The Gaddafi regime has unleashed Libyan jets against rebels trying to oust the country's dictator after 41 years in power.

As pressure on Col Gaddafi grew, US President Barack Obama backed the contingency plans for a no-fly zone, saying military options were being considered to end the "unacceptable" violence.

Libya's UN ambassador has also urged the UN Security Council to impose a no-fly zone to prevent Col Gaddafi's forces from bombing civilians.

Foreign Secretary William Hague has said that Nato was working on a range of options. "At the UN Security Council, we are working closely with partners on a contingency basis on elements of a resolution on a no-fly zone, making clear the need for regional support, a clear trigger for such a resolution and an appropriate legal basis," he told the Commons.