[Pfc.Green]

Prime Minister Tony Blair is preparing to fly to the U.S. for urgent talks over Iraq with U.S. President George W. Bush.

Blair will discuss the threat posed by Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein, his alleged programmes to develop weapons of mass destruction, and what steps to take.

Bush is taking his case on the need for action to oust Saddam to the U.S. Congress, and vowed to make the case against Iraqi leader on the international stage as well. (Full story)

His weekend meeting with Blair, a key ally, at the President's Camp David retreat will be seen as a step to win international support for air strikes against Iraq.

Both leaders say that no decision has yet been taken on military action.

On Tuesday, Blair made clear his determination to stand squarely with the U.S. president over the Iraqi issue, describing Saddam as a "real and unique threat" to the Middle East and the wider world.

On Wednesday, the prime minister's official spokesman said the Camp David talks would provide "a useful opportunity to go over the issues flowing from Saddam's continuing violation of the U.N. resolutions."

In Washington, Bush said he looked forward to talking with the prime minister about "our mutual concerns about how to make the world more secure today."

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At least Britains with us. The rest of Europes filled with a bunch of Chamberlains. hake: