A SECOND United Nations resolution justifying military action against Iraq appears to be little more than a pipe dream.

Indeed, there is every chance the resolution may not even be put to the vote. France's insistence that it will veto the resolution means that tabling it is a pointless exercise.

Those who have consistently opposed war without a second resolution can take no heart from the turn of events at the UN.

The trust placed in the UN to arbitrate on behalf of the international community appears misplaced.

The fact that a permanent member of the Security Council is prepared and is able to scupper further discussion on a resolution passed unanimously just four months ago demonstrates the inherent weakness of the structure of the UN.

In essence, one nation has said it will vote 'no' whatever the resolution says and whatever other nations say. And this from an organisation which sponsors the virtues of freedom, fair play and democracy across the globe.

The UN's credentials as the voice of the international community have been destroyed, whether or not war against Iraq is declared.

Ironically, the ability for the UN to self-destruct and the abandonment of plans to pursue a second resolution may be advantageous to Tony Blair.

While he may have found it difficult to overcome opposition within Britain and his own party if he pressed ahead with military action without the support of the UN, he may now be able to ride out the crisis.

He can now point to resolution 1441, which threatened dire consequences for Saddam Hussein if he defied renewed calls for him to disarm.

Mr Blair will refer to international law to justify war, and thereby silence many of his critics.

There is every chance Mr Blair's leadership will survive the war intact. Reports of his downfall may turn out to be greatly exaggerated.

Indeed, a swift conclusion to war against Iraq may strengthen his position.

If only the UN could look forward to such a positive outcome of hostilities.