Streeting backs Blair ‘but eyebrows will be raised’

CABINET minister Wes Streeting has backed Sir Tony Blair’s proposed role in a transitional authority to govern Gaza, but acknowledged that it will “raise eyebrows”.

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The US president said Mr Blair would be among international leaders set to be on a “Board of Peace” that will oversee a transitional governing committee for Gaza.

Mr Blair took the UK into the Iraq War in 2003 and then served as Middle East envoy for the quartet of international powers - the US, the EU, Russia and the UN - after leaving office.

Recently, he has been part of high-level planning talks with the US and other parties about the future of Gaza.

Health Secretary Mr Streeting acknowledged questions will be raised about whether Mr Blair is the right person for the role, but highlighted the former prime minister's experience brokering the 1998 Good Friday Agreement to end Northern Ireland’s Troubles.