Blair opposes death penalty for Saddam

[ECH1969]

Prime Minister Tony Blair said today he opposed the death penalty for Saddam Hussein but that the deposed Iraqi leader's trial had reminded the world of his brutality.

Asked about Saddam's sentence at his monthly press conference, Blair noted that Britain opposed the death penalty “whether it's Saddam or anyone else.”

Blair's views won't affect the fate of Saddam, whose sentence was imposed by an Iraqi court. But it does put the prime minister at odds with his close ally, President Bush, who praised the verdict.

http://www.columbusdispatch.com/news-story.php?story=224781

[Briar]

1. So much for British influence n/t

[Tellurian]

9. GOOD COP/BAD COP

Blair will win out.

Next, Saddam will be installed as Prime Minister to stop the infighting.

..wondering if the new job comes with benefits?

[NOLADEM]

2. Uh-oh, the Poodle's off his leash

Someone needs to threaten his upcoming job with Carlyle, and put the boy back in line.

Darth, get him on the phone and set him straight.

CHIMP, look like you know what we are talking about.

[Briar]

5. Not really

He didn't like being asked that question at all. Really lost his rag when it was pressed and refused to criticise the verdict of the court. So he's against the death penalty, except when a court he is partly responsible for passes it. Guess what is more important to him: his principles or keeping in with Bush.

[oasis]

3. Blair and Colin Powell are forever linked to Bush's failed war. No escape.

:thumbsup:

[oblivious]

4. From his perspective it does set a bad precedent, hanging leaders for their crimes.

[ckramer]

7. LOL

I know exactly what you mean.

But hanging is not popular in US.

[Amused Musings]

6. Normally

Normally, this would be an example of the law of unintended consequences but I cannot imagine Tony Blair thinking any other result was possible.

[goforit]

8. How sweet!...... Your just such a nice guy!

[JoFerret]

10. One decent thing from Tony at least

the death penalty is ALWAYS barbaric.

[MannyGoldstein]

11. I'm Beginning to Favor The Death Penalty!!!

But only for Blair. He is so friggin' annoying.

[colorado_ufo]

12. Aw, c'mon, Tony - it's just one more!

You already have maybe half a million dead Iraqis on your conscience.

I would only give him credit if he publicly apologized for his involvement in the Iraq war, admitted he was wrong, asked the forgiveness of his nation, and actively worked for a plan for getting troops of there.

[dchill]

13. Blair is turning out to be...

a real turd in W's punchbowl, ain't he?