Just for balance I would offer another view [img]http://www.coast2coast.co.uk/ubb/frown.gif[/img]I'm not a labour party member before you ask)
Blair is a formidable politician who secured 3 labour terms with thumping majorities. A major achievement that has not been done before.
His so called 3rd way (social justice with economic stability) is now the only way and is copied by opposition in the UK and envied in Europe (e.g. Sarkozy). He has in other words changed the political landscape.
The health service has had more investment, has more and better paid doctors, nurses. Waiting lists are down considerably. Listening to an interview on Radio 5 last night was like listening to the "what have the romans done for us" sketch from Life of Brian. The NHS is far from perfect (and never will be) but better than in 1997.
Schools are better equiped and results better than 10 years ago. There is a whole army of teaching assts etc now in schools helping to deliver results.
Crime is down (some is up as well) but overall is down. There are more policeman than ever.
He has done more than any other to redistribute wealth and initiatives like surestart, better maternity leave, more liberal attitudes (in the main) and tollerance (civil partnerships etc) are achievements.
On Foreign policy success in Kosovo and Sierra Lieone plus a greater presence for the UK on leading initiatives in Africa and Climate change.
Iraq will be a problem and is uncomfortable and history will eventually judge.
Peace in NI. Enough said.
10 years of economic growth. We've got very used to this and take it for granted. Some of us can remember the recessions of '82, '88 and '92.
I'll stop. Nobody can be in govt and not make mistakes and can't please everyone all the time. On balance he's been a good PM and I think history will judge him as such despite the spin, Iraq, cash for honours and all the other not so good things.
Apologies for the length and I'll now get back in my bunker with my tin hat on.
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