Blair holds final cabinet meeting as PM

British Prime Minister Tony Blair hosted his last cabinet meeting today.

British Prime Minister Tony Blair hosted his last cabinet meeting today.

At the longer-than-usual meeting in 10 Downing Street, Mr Blair was given a picture as a leaving present, they said. Commons leader Jack Straw said the picture was "very poignant" but would not give any more details, adding: "I'm sure he would like to tell you himself."

An aide was later seen carrying an object that looked like a large picture out of No 10. Northern Ireland Secretary Peter Hain said the meeting was "emotional", while Health Secretary Patricia Hewitt described it as "wonderful".

Several cabinet ministers remained inside No 10 for some time after their colleagues had left, including Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott and Home Secretary John Reid, both of whom will stand down when Mr Blair leaves office.

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