Blair defends Iraq stance

The Prime Minister has defended his hardline stance on Iraq as he faces a massive backbench revolt.

At Commons question time, Mr Blair told doubters on his own side and elsewhere: "I think the case we have set out in respect of Iraq is a good case.

"I hope that if people listen to it and study it in detail they will accept that if we do have to act and go to war, it will not be because we want to, but because of the breaches by Saddam Hussein of UN resolutions."

His comments came minutes ahead of a crucial Commons debate on Iraq, which could end with the biggest backbench rebellion since Mr Blair took office.

The Prime Minister said that in his dealings with George Bush he had always found the US President to be "honest and straightforward".

President Bush deserved credit for following the UN route, he added.

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