There is ‘no split’ within the constituency party after MP Edward Davey voted for military action in Syria, according to the chair of Kingston and Surbiton Liberal Democrats.

Former councillor Mary Reid said the party respected Mr Davey’s position even though many members disagreed.

Mr Davey was one of 33 Liberal Democrat MPs who backed Prime Minister David Cameron’s motion supporting intervention - defeated by 13 votes. Earlier today, Mr Davey acknowledged that some Kingston colleagues would be “disappointed” with his stance.

Mrs Reid said: “I’ve been getting opinions from some of the core members and there are mixed views. It’s a very complex issue.

“But I would be particularly concerned if this was presented as a split in the local party.

“As Liberal Democrats we pride ourselves on public debate and open discussion. We know on an issue like this there is a conscience issue.

“We have got great respect for the position he took, but you will find not everybody will agree with him.

“Personally, I would have been unhappy about any military intervention in Syria.”

Last night, Mrs Reid wrote on Facebook: “Just heard the result from the Commons - I might not tear up my membership card after all. But yet to hear how Lib Dem MPs voted.”

Her comment was liked by several senior Lib Dem councillors including Margaret Thompson, Barry O'Mahoney and deputy council leader Rolson Davies, who said: “I am disillusioned by the national party enough already - this could have been the final straw.”