Tony Blair took to the airwaves yesterday to field questions from a range of listeners.

Appearing on London's LBC radio, the prime minister answered queries on issues as wide-ranging as speeding fines, tuition fees, taxation, asylum and drugs policy.

Downing Street defended his decision to host the one-hour show. "The prime minister deems it appropriate to answer questions from the public," said a spokesman.

A Tory attempt to embarrass the prime minister while on air backfired after the plan was leaked to the media.

"We would like our supporters to phone in and question him. Obviously he is vulnerable on Hutton and tuition fees," a Conservative Central Office e-mail sent to councillors and party activists read.

"Please DO NOT pass to the media," it added.