Cherie abusing role says Short

Clare Short today accused Cherie Blair of abusing her role as the Prime Minister's wife by giving a lucrative speech in the United States on life at No10.

The former Cabinet minister said Mrs Blair had "crossed the line". Ms Short described Mrs Blair's behaviour as "outrageous," saying she was wrong to use her position to make money.

Ms Short said Mrs Blair was allowed earn her living as a "well-paid lawyer," adding: "But to be getting money for herself personally out of being the wife of the Prime Minister is wrong."

Her comments came on the BBC's programme Daily Politics.

Mrs Blair earned an estimated ?20,000 to ?30,000 for a single engagement in Washington.

Her appearance, which coincided with her husband's visit to President Bush, has been criticised by the Conservatives who claimed she was cashing in.

Ms Short's intervention shows that many Labour MPs are also uncomfortable about it.

Downing Street was obliged to intervene after it emerged that Mrs Blair had been introduced at the speech by the British ambassador.

The Conservatives said it was "totally inappropriate" for the ambassador to have been involved in what was billed as a private visit.