Blair avoids exit question with squirrel distraction

Prime minister's questions ended in uproar yesterday as Tony Blair deflected David Cameron's question about the timing of his departure. Asked by Mr Cameron to say precisely when he would be leaving Number 10, the prime minister distracted his opposite number's attention by pointing above the opposition benches and shouting "Look! A squirrel!" As opposition MPs turned to see the 'squirrel' the prime minister gathered his papers and ran out of the chamber leaving commentators speculating furiously whether this was a signal that Mr Blair is planning to stay in Downing Street longer than expected.