Clarke slams PM's foreign policy

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Former Home Secretary Charles Clarke has criticised Tony Blair's foreign policy, saying that good intentions have "turned to dust".

In an article for the New Statesman, he attacks his ex-boss's record on Europe, "ethical" foreign policy and nuclear non-proliferation.

Mr Clarke said Mr Blair was "hasty" in wanting to replace Trident missiles.

He also accused the prime minister of having a "desire not to rock the boat" on arms sales to Saudi Arabia.

However, Mr Clarke cautioned against the assumption that matters would improve under the leadership of Gordon Brown.

'Euro-demons'

He argued the chancellor was as responsible as Mr Blair for the development of foreign policy.

He said: "The Blair premiership is a classic illustration of the potential for good intentions to turn to dust.

"The Britain which was to be at 'the heart of Europe' has failed to face its Euro-demons and is now more remote from the centre of European power than ever.

"An 'ethical foreign policy' has given way to a desire not to rock the boat of arms sales to Saudi Arabia.

"And a commitment to nuclear non-proliferation has yielded to an over-hasty and ill-considered determination to renew Trident, whatever the future security threats.

"These have been the approaches of the whole government, with the chancellor bearing as much responsibility as the prime minister - indeed, in some areas more."

Mr Clarke - who has said he expects to vote for Mr Brown in any leadership contest, despite earlier criticisms of his style - questioned whether the chancellor would be able to provide the "committed international engagement" required.

Last year, Mr Clarke accused Mr Brown of "absolutely stupid behaviour" during a row over Mr Blair's leadership.

He said the chancellor was a "control freak", who lacked confidence and could not manage people in a "collegiate" way.

But he later apologised for his comments.