The Prime Minister was speaking during a visit to the Knowle West Health Park, on Friday, where he met anti-drugs campaigners and members of the community.

Mr Blair arrived in Bristol on Thursday night for a Labour Party dinner, but was greeted by protests from anti-war campaigners, students and members of the Fire Brigades Union.

His visit came as details of his wife's dealings with a convicted fraudster were being widely reported in the media.

The controversy centred on the release of details about the Blair's allowing the fraudster to act on their behalf during the purchase of two flats in Bristol.

Downing Street issued a statement on Mrs Blair's behalf to confirm Paul Foster was involved in the purchase, in contrast to earlier statements from Number 10.

Cabinet minister Paul Boateng has insisted no lies were told by the Downing Street press office or by Mrs Blair.

In her statement, Mrs Blair said that if she has caused "any misunderstanding between the Number 10 press office and the media that is unfortunate and I regret that".