" Unlike the United States, the British system does not possess the war powers act which allows an American president to take immediate action without consulting congress if American interests are threatened."
And that is the issue.
Syria is no threat to the US.
Since President Obama's only purpose is to 'punish' Assad, bombing Syria will not punish Assad, it will kill Syrians.
And then what....
Will this action destabilize Syria further?
Will more Syrians flee, increasing problems for the countries absorbing these refugees...
And what about Russia?
IMO, since the G20 will be meeting shortly, Obama can utilize this opportunity. He canceled meeting Putin because of Snowden, maybe he can talk with Putin?
If Obama could get Putin to condemn 'chemical weapon use,' and also have the other countries echo the same, that would be a step to shame Assad.
Shaming Assad might be the best form of punishment, especially if its a Worldwide condemnation!
And no Syrians would be harmed.
That would be a worthwhile effort by Nobel Peace Prize recipient!