Blair rejects 'caretaker' criticism

Speaking during his visit to the US, Tony Blair has rejected claims he now leads a "caretaker government".

The prime minister's comments came after it was confirmed that Gordon Brown is now certain to become the next Labour leader.

The news prompted Conservative leader David Cameron to say: "We need an end to this ludicrous situation of having a caretaker government. 

"We are going to have weeks of a prime minister on a farewell tour when the government should be getting on with the business of governing the country."

At a press conference with President Bush, however, Blair praised his chancellor and insisted that he still had work to do before his June 27 resignation.

The prime minister said Brown "would make a great prime minister".

"As for me, I will carry on doing the things that I have set out over the next few weeks that I need to do, not least with the upcoming G8 summit and the deal which we have been trying to put together... on climate change and Africa," he said.

And he insisted there would be a "government position" at forthcoming EU talks.

President Bush, asked if his relationship with the British leader had prompted the prime minister's departure from power, said: "Could be. I don't know."

"We've had a unique ability to speak in terms that help design common strategies and tactics to achieve big objectives," said the American leader.

"Will I miss working with Tony Blair? You bet I will, absolutely. Can I work with the next guy? Of course.

"I'm here to make it clear to the people of our respective countries that this relationship is one that's vital to achieve big objectives."

Blair also insisted he had no regrets about his close relationship with the US.

"You can debate that as much as you like," he said.

"I have admired him as a president and I regard him as a friend.

"I have taken the view that Britain should stand shoulder to shoulder with America after September 11.

"I have never deviated from that view, I do not regret that view, I am proud of the relationship we have had, I'm proud of the relationship between our two countries."

He added: "I would take the same position of alliance with America again, yes I would."