Blair's woes could weaken U.S. ties

[emad]

Blair's woes could weaken U.S. ties

May 5, 2005

BY PAISLEY DODDS
LONDON -- Tony Blair looks certain to win Thursday's general election -- but the margin could have deep consequences for Britain's storied ''special relationship'' with the United States.

Boasting stewardship over years of economic good times, Blair may escape serious punishment over the war in Iraq -- but he has taken enough of a battering in the campaign that any future British leader will probably be wary of backing Washington militarily in the face of hostile domestic opinion.

Having promised he won't run for a fourth term, Blair is looking to secure his place in history after this election.

But if his Labor Party only squeaks by with a slim majority he could be forced to step down midway through his tenure -- leaving key ambitions, including stable democracy in Iraq, a lasting peace in Northern Ireland and a breakthrough in the Middle East, unfulfilled.

http://www.suntimes.com/output/news/cst-nws-blair05.html

HUNG Parliament more of a certainty if Iraq War dissidents continue swing to Lib Dems

[leesa]

1. His place in history better be determined at the Hague.

Ain't fixed elections grand?

[emad]

2. Tower of London 6/4 on fav