Week of plots, lies and conspiracy theories

THIS week has seen a remarkable convulsion within Britain’s Labour Party, culminating in the confirmation by Tony Blair that he will quit within a year.

Mr Blair made no secret that the announcement had been forced out of him at a time not of his choosing.

But the question being asked in Westminster was whether this week’s developments are the result of a plot by supporters of Gordon Brown designed to speed his entry into 10 Downing Street or whether they simply reflect widespread anxiety among Labour MPs about the party’s electoral future.