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Sarkozy suggests Blair as first president of the EU
Last updated at 00:07am on 20.10.07Tony Blair is being touted for a return to the front line of world politics as the first full-time EU president.
French President Nicolas Sarkozy caused astonishment yesterday by publicly endorsing Mr Blair for the job, created under the terms of the revived EU constitution.
M Sarkozy, who had dinner with Mr Blair in Paris on Wednesday, praised him as "remarkable" and claimed he would be a "very intelligent" choice.
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Speaking at a charity event in New York, Blair urged Brits to defend their beliefs and strengthen their stance against terrorism
Such an appointment would be disconcerting for Gordon Brown, who has long struggled to escape the shadow of his rival. He conceded yesterday that Mr Blair would be a "great candidate for any significant international job", but he was quick to add: "The treaty has still got to be ratified by every Parliament."
The job will carry a higher status than the current role of European Commission President, held by Jose Manuel Barroso.
He is paid £80,000 a year with expenses of £27,000 for accommodation and £7,000 for entertaining, a car worth up to £75,000 and a £120,000-a-year pension.
Mr Blair would be able to negotiate an even more generous package.
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Mr Sarkozy recently dined with the former Prime Minster in Paris
His spokesman pointedly refused to rule out the move last night, saying only that he was "focused on his current role in the Middle East".
Reader views (2)
Vain as he may be, surely Blair knows he can't be president as WELL as his current "peace ambassador" (ha!) role? Please don't anyone second this daft suggestion, I'm sick and tired of the man.
- Marianne, SW France
Yep - that would fit the timing just right. The current Prime Minster lasts as long as he can before being voted out of office because of his sell out, then he can take over from the guy before him who bought the presidency of the EU with his own sellout, Mr Blair!
Ok, that's an accusation without substance, I know. It just 'sounds' right.
- Rogan, Dallas TX
