Blair called to give evidence to Iraq inquiry for a second time

LONDON - Tony Blair was Wednesday requested to appear for a second time before a public inquiry probing Britain’s involvement in the Iraq conflict, and the strategic and political decisions taken in the run-up to the 2003 US-led invasion.

The so-called Chilcot Inquiry in London said the former prime minister, who led Britain’s Labour government from 1997 to 2007, would have to appear to answer “further questions” early next year.

Jack Straw, the former Foreign Secretary, would also be recalled.

Blair, 57, first gave evidence to the inquiry in January 2010. The former leader delivered a strong defence of the decisions taken by his government in the run-up to the invasion, and its close cooperation with the US government of George W. Bush at the time.

Blair, asked repeatedly by the inquiry chairman, John Chilcot, whether he had anything to say to the many relatives of war victims, finished his testimony by saying he had “no regrets” over his actions.