Blair returns after back injury

Blair back to work after suffering slipped disc

Blair back to work after suffering slipped disc

The Prime Minister has received treatment in hospital for a slipped disc, Downing Street has confirmed.

Doctors at London’s Royal Free Hospital administered anti-inflammatory injections for Tony Blair’s back pain, No 10 said.

Mr Blair was recovering at his Chequers home, Downing Street added, but would be back at work with no disruption to his timetable.

The Prime Minister had been suffering back pain for some months, his spokesman said.

Consultant radiologist Andrew Platts said Mr Blair was unlikely to need further treatment after the injection.

“For the majority of people, this treatment is sufficient,” said Dr Platts.

Mr Blair received treatment for heart palpitations last October, raising questions about his health and how low long he would serve as leader.

The 51-year old has vowed to serve a full third term but not a fourth.

Speaking at the Chambers Global Awards 2005 last night, Cherie Blair said her husband was “very upset” he could not play tennis this weekend because of the injury.

Mr Blair was not expected to play the game for six weeks, she added.