Blair reveals Iraq news in text chat with nation

Tony Blair has been virtually answering questions from the public today - the PM has been bantering with the nation in a mobile chatroom.

Blair answered nearly 30 questions sent in by text message or submitted via the chatroom. The mobile inquisitors quizzed the Prime Minister over several of the hottest topics in politics, as well as some more quotidian aspects of living in number 10.

The chat, run by O2 and Freever, received 2,500 questions by text and another 4,300 through the WAP portal.

Among the most popular subjects of the questions were Iraq, foxhunting and the bill to ban smoking in pubs where food is served.

'Kellykell' asked the PM: "Was it really necessary to go to war in Iraq?", to which Blair responded: "Yes i believe it was. We have had difficulties but iraq will become democratic. [sic]" He also revealed in response to another question that the Black Watch will return from the country soon. "it will be before Christmas. The exact date can not be revealed for security reasons".

Others were more concerned about local issues. 'George' wrote: "Will there ever be an improvement on National Health dentists in Wales? I cannot get one anywhere, I've tried for two years?" Blair suggested he "get in touch".

Some of the WAP chatters were more interested in Blair's pop musings than his political machinations.

In response to questions, Blair revealed he will be buying the new Band Aid single and his favourite guitar solo can be found on While My Guitar Gently Weeps.

The questions posed by the public, but not put before Blair included "Have u ever considered packing it all in for a simpler life and running away to Scotland with Cherie to run a chip shop or something?" and "You're a Newcastle fan - will you give Shearer a place in the cabinet when he retires at the end of the season?"