Blair's Iraq war a 'catastrophic error', says Ken

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He contrasted the Prime Minister's achievement in bringing peace to Northern Ireland with the decision to invade Iraq in 2003.

The Mayor said: "His biggest long-term success is bringing peace to Ireland, the most catastrophic error is the war in Iraq. It has created a whole new generation of terrorists.

"What has happened now is that we have hundreds, if not thousands, of young men in Iraq training how to kill, how to bomb.

"When there is a solution in Iraq these people will disperse to the four corners of the earth. Many of them will look for new targets."

The Mayor also criticised the attempts of Blair allies Peter Mandelson and Alastair Campbell to manipulate the news agenda, saying attempts at spin had been "a disaster".

He said the biggest disappointment had been the failure of Mr Blair to lead one of the great reforming administrations of the 20th century.

"I think Tony Blair would say to you his first term as Prime Minister was learning how to do the job. That is just an indulgence the nation can't afford."

But he welcomed the idea of a Government led by Gordon Brown that was focused on substance over style. Mr Livingstone told BBC London radio that he had a "good relationship with Gordon".