House attaches strings to war funding

WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 (UPI) -- The U.S. House voted Wednesday for another $50 billion for the Iraq War, including limits likely to run afoul of Senate Republicans and President George Bush.

Not only was the $50 billion less than the $200 billion sought by Bush, but it required that U.S. troop withdrawals commence within a month, a narrowing of mission objectives and full withdrawal in 13 months, The New York Times reported.

The legislation requires all U.S. personnel, including CIA agents, to follow the Army Field Manual regarding torture, which bans so-called waterboarding.

The preliminary vote was 219 to 190 to proceed on the bill,.

House Democrats said they are trying to accomplish Americans' wishes by bringing the war to a close.

"I think the American people see their government as not effecting the end they want and therefore they are frustrated and angry," Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer of Maryland. "I don't blame them."

Rep. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., derided Democrats for repeating their unsuccessful tactics -- "the ultimate Groundhog Day of legislation that doesn't get us anywhere."

White House spokeswoman Dana Perino called it a bill Democrats know Bush will veto. "This is for political posturing and to appease radical

groups," she said.