‘Duplicity and deceit’ form backdrop to Blair inquiry

BRITISH Prime Minister Tony Blair begins the gravest test of his political career today as a judicial inquiry begins investigating the death of David Kelly, the scientist central to claims that Blair’s government exaggerated the case for war in Iraq.

Over the next two months, a long series of witnesses will be called to give evidence that could potentially damage Blair's reputation beyond repair.

Among those due to be called before senior judge Lord Brian Hutton, heading the inquiry, are a string of government officials, ministers and eventually Blair himself.