Downing Street has spoken out in support of the home secretary following newspaper claims that he is romantically involved with a married woman.

According to the News of the World, David Blunkett has been involved in a secret three-year affair.

The Sun today names the woman alleged to be involved with the Cabinet minister.

Commenting on the claims, a spokesman for Tony Blair said "The home secretary's private life is a private matter. The prime minister thinks he is doing an excellent job as home secretary."

In a statement issued over the weekend, Blunkett refused to be drawn on the details of his relationship.

"After my divorce I decided not to talk again about my subsequent private life," said the home secretary.