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Tony Blair Ends 10-Year Era

"The party will now select a new leader."

By Sam Gale Rosen,  Newser Staff

Posted May 10, 2007 6:56 AM CDT

(Newser) – It's official: Tony Blair will step down on June 27, as soon as a new Labour leader is chosen. Blair publicly announced his decision in his home constituency of Sedgefield, having told his cabinet earlier in the day. Blair's words prompted "much thumping of tables" by the cabinet, says his spokesman.

Chancellor Gordon Brown, who is almost certain to succeed Blair, praised his 10 years of leadership.  And Blair trumpeted his own successes: " There is only one government since 1945 that can say all of the following: more jobs, fewer unemployed, better health and education results, lower crime and economic growth in every quarter. Only one government, this one."

Tony Blair waves as he arrives at Trimdon Labour club where he is to announce his resignation as prime minister and leader of the Labour Party in Trimdon, north east England Thursday May 10, 2007. Blair returned to his Parliamentary district Thursday to call an end to a decade in...
Tony Blair waves as he arrives at Trimdon Labour club where he is to announce his resignation as prime minister and leader of the Labour Party in Trimdon, north east England Thursday May 10, 2007. Blair...   (Associated Press)
British Prime Minister Tony Blair arrives at the local Labour club in Trimdon, England, Thursday May 10, 2007, where he is scheduled to announce his resignation as leader of the Labour Party.  Blair's resignation will open the way for a leadership contest which is expected to be won by present...
British Prime Minister Tony Blair arrives at the local Labour club in Trimdon, England, Thursday May 10, 2007, where he is scheduled to announce his resignation as leader of the Labour Party. Blair's...   (Associated Press)
British Prime Minister Tony Blair waves to supporters at the local Labour club in Trimdon, England, Thursday May 10, 2007, after announcing his resignation as leader of the Labour Party.  Blair's resignation will open the way for a leadership contest which is expected to be won by present Chancellor of...
British Prime Minister Tony Blair waves to supporters at the local Labour club in Trimdon, England, Thursday May 10, 2007, after announcing his resignation as leader of the Labour Party. Blair's resignation...   (Associated Press)
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