The government is tonight facing a knife-edge vote on its plans to introduce foundation hospitals.

Despite a 164 majority, ministers have been forced to return from official duties to attend the vote.

Sports minister Richard Caborn was ordered to return from the rugby world cup in Australia to attend the crunch division.

Rebels believe they could force a defeat although the government has warned that such an outcome would be a boost to the Tories under their new leader.

Health secretary John Reid wrote to MPs yesterday where he insisted "Wednesday's vote will be important for the future of the NHS".

A defeat would be a major embarrassment to the prime minister on day one of the president's state visit to London.

Today's Times reports that Blair will seek to relaunch his agenda next week by issuing a "Prospectus" document.

The document is expected to contain a frank assessment about Britain's long-term problems.

Ministers are set to discuss the move at a special political meeting of the Cabinet today.