But then nobody ever entirely believes a denial.

[mrph]

"No 10 denies reports that Gordon Brown has asked Tony Blair to step aside. More soon..."

Well now. Could be shaping up into an awfully interesting day in politics. I'm quite prepared to believe that no, Brown didn't.

But the fact that it's viewed as a possibility warranting (a seemingly unprompted) denial makes Blair look a little shakier. And then some.

Comments

[sarcaustik.livejournal.com]

The words 'smoke' and 'fire' spring immediately to mind...

[mrph.livejournal.com]

It did occur to me that Blair couldn't easily survive the current Iraq-frenzy if it leads to war without UN backing. Especially not if he's seen to be putting foreign policy ahead of home affairs.

But Labour could. Especially as it's Blair, personally, who's seen as GWB's poodle. A new leader would be able to say "well, things have changed..." and would have a bit more room to manouver.

[sarcaustik.livejournal.com]

And it's certainly no secret that Brown had enough of being the bridesmaid ages ago...

I don't know that he'd be able to succesfully pull off a leadership challenge, but you're absolutely right, Blair is the focus rather than the party itself. Its not as if there is a credible alternative, after all.