Farewell Mr. Blair
Tony Blair has named the day when he will quit as Labour leader and stand down as Prime Minister after 10 years in office.
He told supporters at Trimdon Labour Club in his Sedgefield constituency: "Ten years is enough for me - and the country."
Mr Blair said he would leave Downing Street on June 27 after a new leader has been chosen.
"I have been Prime Minister of this country for just over 10 years," he said.
"In this job, in the world today, I think that is long enough for me, but more especially for the country."
He defended his record, including Iraq, but said others would make the final judgement.
In an emotional moment, he said: "Hand on heart, I did what I thought was right for our country."
Mr Blair admitted he had made mistakes but boasted of his record on education, health, employment and crime.
"There is only one Government since 1945 that can say all of the following: more jobs, fewer unemployed, better health and education results, lower crime, and economic growth in every quarter," he said.
Mr Blair told the audience he had entered office with "high hopes, and I leave it with high hopes for Britain's future."
I have doubts the next PM of Britain will be as Pro-American as Mr. Blair. He has been a great ally and we owe him many thanks.
As one Pro-American head of state resigns, another one will be taking office. Hopefully, the new French President Nicolas Sarkozy, will be the one taking Mr. Blair's place as a European ally.
