Blair: Scotland visit on day two

Tony Blair has made his first campaign visit to Scotland, where he warned that the country was witnessing "a clash in values" between the political parties.

Speaking on day two of the campaign proper, Tony Blair talked up the importance of the forthcoming general election to voters north of the border.

"Sometimes it's difficult for people to get a real handle on what's happening," he told an audience.

"I think it is a fundamental clash of values and philosophies, as well as simply policies and party."

Some fear that following devolution, turnout north of the border could hit record lows on May 5.

Real difference

Blair said voters would see themselves the real differences between the parties as the general election approaches.

"It is the difference between saying each and every one of our young people is to be valued and given a chance, and a philosophy that says it doesn't matter if some people are left behind while others go forward," added the Labour leader.

The SNP, however, said both Blair and Gordon Brown were attempting to use the campaign to mask their intention to overhaul the Barnett formula - the system used to determine the funding to Scottish public services.

"The prime minister and chancellor now have something they agree on – they both have a hidden agenda on Scottish spending," he said.

"They both share the same secret – suppressed papers detailing Labour plans to reform, amend or scrap the Barnett formula.

"They are hiding the truth and that could mean a billion pound cut in Scottish spending.

"They should publish or face being damned by voters in Scotland."