State Papers: Tony Blair and officials keen to 'have a good time' during Irish visit 

Tony Blair in 1993. State papers show Irish civil servants described him as 'a real force in the Labour Party — youthful, articulate, and popular.'

The future British prime minister and members of his office were interested in having “a good time” during a planned visit to Ireland in 1993 with hints that they would like something that would appeal to fans of U2.

New files released by the National Archives reveal Mr Blair as the Shadow Home Secretary was keen to meet officials in Dublin and Belfast to discuss the Northern Ireland peace process and other issues.