Tony Blair is to embark on a round of shuttle diplomacy after addressing parliament today. The Independent says his address to MPs in a recalled parliament will set out Britain's evidence linking Osama bin Laden to the terror attacks in America. The publication of some classified information is being seen as another sign that military action is coming closer.

Following his address to parliament, Blair will head to Moscow for talks with Russian president Vladimir Putin. He is expected to express "understanding" of Russia's military operation in Chechnya, which has been condemned for human rights abuses.

The diplomacy is set to continue with a visit to the key country, Pakistan, though Downing Street refused to comment on the prime minister's schedule.

The Guardian reports the diplomacy is necessary to shore up a "shaky" coalition after concern in Saudi Arabia, Oman and Uzbekistan about the use of their territory to launch military strikes. One news agency reports the US and the UK were close to launching air strikes before the three countries renewed their concerns.