Return to: Home

I knew Brown would fail, says Blair

Published 01 September 2010

Tony Blair says that his successor had "zero emotional intelligence" in long-awaited memoir.

Tony Blair believed that Gordon Brown would be a disaster at prime minister, and knew that Labour could not win the 2010 general election, according to his memoirs, published today.

The former prime minister says that Brown has "zero emotional intelligence" and fatally abandoned the new Labour formula of public service and welfare reforms.

He told the BBC that the former chancellor -- a "strange guy" -- could also be an "immense source of strength", but that Labour lost power because if "backed away" from further reforms.

The memoir, A Journey, also contains a passionate defence of the war in Iraq. Although he speaks of his "anguish" about the 2003 invasion, he says he does not regret it.

Blair does not directly endorse any candidate for the Labour leadership, but makes several comments that will be interpreted at criticism of Ed Miliband. Party members will receive their ballot papers today.

Get the full magazine for just £1 a week with a trial subscription. PLUS get a free copy of Penny Red: Notes from the New Age of dessent by Laurie Penny

Post this article to

5 comments from readers

Arthur Williamson
01 September 2010 at 09:08

If Gordon Brown was such a disaster, why was it David Cameron failed to secure an overall majority in this year`s general election.

Clem the Gem
01 September 2010 at 10:08

Nasty and rude to the end, whilst trying to regain our sympathy. The "reforms" he endorses are part of the problem, not the solution.

I understand his justification for the 2003 invasion, but really, to allow lives to be lost without any serious plan for Iraqs future was simply not on.

alex
01 September 2010 at 22:31

From the man who had is arm twisted into an illegal war..

George
02 September 2010 at 00:43

I saw the interview with Andrew Marr tonight.

Extremely disappointed in Tony tonight, defend your record, defend your decisions, kick dirt on another party member in public like that? The interview, frankly, left him bereft of the dignity that I felt he had with his silence.

Very low and callous.

Hysteria
02 September 2010 at 01:56