Convicted conman Peter Foster this afternoon issued a statement on his role in the 'Cheriegate' affair, which has rocked Downing Street in recent weeks.
The 40-year-old Australian, who has a number of convictions for fraud, was involved in Cherie Blair's purchase of two flats in Bristol. It sparked a series of damaging reports for the wife of the British Prime Minister.
This afternoon he apologised to Tony Blair and his wife for the mess that his role in the financial transaction had landed them in. He said that he knew that intentions on both sides were always honourable.
Despite previously stating that he had grenades to throw at Downing Street, Mr Foster's statement may be seen as a bid to bring closure to his part in the saga.
One senior Labour backbencher acknowledged this morning that Mrs Blair had made a disastrous error by failing to be frank about her involvement with Mr Foster. MP Clive Soley said the case raised significant issues.
Although there is no suggestion of illegality in Mr Foster's assistance in the property transaction, the revelation that he was involved in the transaction has been embarrassing for Downing Street.
A chance to defuse the story early on was missed after the British government's press office denied Foster had been involved in the purchase.
Cherie Blair admitted his involvement only after leaked e-mails showed Foster had helped her with the purchase, and she was later forced to make a public apology.
