Blair’s book-launch party at London modern art museum postponed following protest threat

Blair’s book party postponed after protest threat

LONDON — Tony Blair’s spokesman says that a book-launch party for former prime minister has been postponed following a threat by demonstrators to picket the event.

Matthew Doyle said Wednesday that the event had been put off but refused to say until when. He hung up when asked why the party had been pushed back.

Blair’s recently published memoir has reawakened the controversy over his tenure at the top of British politics, in particular his decision to take the country to war in Iraq.

Blair’s appearance at a book signing event in Ireland’s capital last week was greeted with a protest, while another London event was canceled due to security concerns.

Wednesday’s private reception had been due to take place at London’s Tate Modern museum.