Changes

==Blair's policies==

==Blair's policies==

During Blair's tenure as Prime Minister, the [[Labour party|Labour]] government made the Bank of England independent, allowing them to set the nation's interest rates (which had previously been set by the Chancellor of the Exchequer), and has introduced a national [[minimum wage]], in 1998, which has gradually been increased over time. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have gained their own legislatures, and limited attempts have been made to devolve power to the regions of England (although these have not been successful).

During Blair's tenure as Prime Minister, the [[Labour party|Labour]] government made the Bank of England independent, allowing them to set the nation's interest rates (which had previously been set by the Chancellor of the Exchequer), and has introduced a national [[minimum wage]], in 1998, which has gradually been increased over time. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have gained their own legislatures, and limited attempts have been made to devolve power to the regions of England (although these have not been successful). Blair's government has also banned fox-hunting and cigarette smoking in public places.

One of the most controversial aspects of Blair's premiership has been his commitment to and support of the Iraq war, which has strongly divided opinion, both in the House and among the British people.  His strong support of America and President Bush in particular have set him apart from most European leaders, especially with the parties of the left (including his own Labour Party).  This has come at considerable political cost with his own popularity suffering greatly, and the Government may have lost considerable support in the 2005 general election as a result.

One of the most controversial aspects of Blair's premiership has been his commitment to and support of the Iraq war, which has strongly divided opinion, both in the House and among the British people.  His strong support of America and President Bush in particular have set him apart from most European leaders, especially with the parties of the left (including his own Labour Party).  This has come at considerable political cost with his own popularity suffering greatly, and the Government may have lost considerable support in the 2005 general election as a result.