In a Times interview, Gordon Brown continues Labour's charm offensive following media reports of cabinet rifts and personal hostility between him and Tony Blair.

"Tony Blair is the best friend that I have had in politics," he said.

The chancellor expressed anger at press claims that his stance on issues such as Europe or poverty was driven by personal ambition.

Brown also dismissed claims that Labour infighting was damaging the government, praising "hard working and brilliant" cabinet colleagues.

Asserting that there was no disagreement between himself and the PM on the euro, the chancellor held open the prospect of future tax increases following the end of the spending round in 2003/2004.