Blair defies 'step down' calls

12 April 2012

Prime Minister Tony Blair has defied critics who want him to name the day for stepping down, with No 10 outlining a packed agenda on domestic policy, Northern Ireland and the Middle East.

Mr Blair began a two-day tour of England, which will include a keynote speech on social exclusion - one of his favourite themes.

Downing Street also said Mr Blair would visit the Middle East if his presence could help kick-start the stalled peace process there.

And the Prime Minister's official spokesman emphasised that Ulster politics were entering "one of the most important" phases for Northern Ireland, as efforts to restart the Stormont government continue.

Mr Blair is expected to hold crunch talks with all the parties involved and the Taoiseach Bertie Ahern next month.

But Labour infighting over the premier's departure from office showed no sign of abating, with Education Secretary Alan Johnson accusing those who want Mr Blair to set a date for quitting No 10 of handing "a gift" to the Opposition.

And former Home Secretary Charles Clarke, who snubbed Mr Blair's offer of alternative Cabinet jobs after being sacked from his post earlier this year, will make a speech on the theme of Government leadership and reform.

Downing Street said the Prime Minister's speech on social exclusion would feature both policy proposals and the philosophy behind them.

Mr Blair sparked controversy when he said that problem teenagers could be identified before they were born, and that action had to be taken "pre-birth" if necessary.

No 10 also held out the prospect of a visit to the Middle East, to encourage Israel and the Palestinian Authority to resume talks somehow, with the premier's spokesman saying: "A trip will be part of trying to get that process of re-engagement up and running."

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