This paper aims to explore the moral and religious dimension of the politics of the former British Prime Minister and a committed Christian Labour leader, Tony Blair. Blair's premiership is noted for the way he managed, or had to manage, his public display of religious faith and its associated values which he sought to apply to particular policies as a prime source for his social conscience and political conviction. The paper addresses how he, based on a particular view of Christianity, has shaped his political agenda regarding the 'modernisation' of his party and the country, 'equalities' legislation on women's and gay rights, 'ethical' wars in Kosovo and Iraq and a fight against international, and religious, terrorism.
Section II first explores young Blair's double reception of social(ist) Christianity and left-wing politics informed by the key concept of 'community', and then his early career as an MP and Labour leader who came to be known as a 'new moralist' politician. Sections III and IV look at New Labour policies on education, social and moral issues and defence and foreign affairs through the perspective of religion, i.e. their effects upon religion and his relationship with churches and religious communities across Britain. After indicating Blair's post-prime ministerial activities under his 'Faith Foundation' and remarks upon religion, section V considers problems surrounding the contemporary role of religion in the face of the global rise of both religious extremism and aggressive secularism. Through this, the paper offers a critical analysis of the most exceptional as well as innovative premiership in British political history.