Blair converts to Catholicism

Former prime minister Tony Blair has converted to Catholicism, a statement from the head of Britain's Catholic congregation confirms.

Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O'Connor, who oversaw Mr Blair's entry into the church, congratulated the Middle East peace envoy on his decision to follow the Catholic faith.

"I am very glad to welcome Tony Blair into the Catholic Church," Murphy-O'Connor said.

"For a long time he has been a regular worshipper at Mass with his family and in recent months he has been following a programme of formation to prepare for his reception into full communion.

"My prayers are with him, his wife and family at this joyful moment in their journey of faith together."

Previously a member of the Church of England, there has been sustained speculation that Blair's departure from power in June this year would allow him the opportunity to convert from Anglicanism.

Blair's wife Cherie is Roman Catholic while the couple's children have been taught at Catholic schools with the whole family regularly attending Catholic services.

He was received into his new faith at a Mass service held at Archbishop's House in London on Friday evening.

Blair admitted to a BBC documentary earlier this year that religion had been a key aspect of his decision-making during his ten years as leader.

"You know if I am honest about it, yes of course it was hugely important," he said.

"You know you can't have a religious faith and it be an insignificant aspect because it's, it's profound about you and about you as a human being."