IN an hour at the despatch box yesterday Tony Blair confounded critics who accuse him of being driven more by focus groups than substance.

In the face of ministerial resignations, hostility within his own party ranks, and opposition from much of the electorate, it would have been easy for the Prime Minister to cave in to pressure.

That he chose to be resolute is to his immense credit, and demonstrates his attributes for leadership of our nation.

Mr Blair's sincerity is not in question. He understands the reticence of people to support military action against Iraq. He shares the frustration at the inability to gather support for a second resolution at the United Nations.

But, as Prime Minister, he does not have the luxury of those who can denounce what has gone before without assuming the responsibility for what is to happen in the future. As he puts it, he cannot afford such an indulgence.

Mr Blair acknowledges that the case for war against Iraq is not overwhelming. But when the only alternative is a further period of dithering, the case for war becomes more compelling.

His speech in the Commons yesterday was commanding. It has gone a considerable way in easing the conscience of those in Parliament and the general public who are understandably wary of committing our troops to battle in a far-off land.

It is in stark contrast to the less than dignified position adopted by Clare Short.

Last week she was honest enough to reveal her concerns about the Prime Minister's "reckless" policy on Iraq. Yesterday, although still expressing criticism of Mr Blair's handling of the crisis, she still felt comfortable to remain in his Cabinet.

While she may be relishing the challenge to lead the regeneration of Iraq once Saddam Hussein and his heinous regime is toppled from power, we have to question her suitability for such a role.

Forging the peace in Iraq will be as daunting and important a task as waging war in the country.

It will call for political integrity that may be lacking in a minister who sees nothing wrong in adopting a pick-and-mix approach to the notion of collective responsibility.

Why should the Prime Minister place his trust in Ms Short to oversee the rebuilding of Iraq when he could not rely on her support when he and the country needed it most?