Cherie to chair No10 crime talk

Cherie Blair risks fresh controversy tonight when she chairs another Downing Street summit - this time on the sensitive issue of crime.

Mrs Blair was expected to lead a question-and-answer session after a lecture on the criminal justice system at No 10 by Prison Service director-general Martin Narey.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman said Mr Blair would attend but Home Secretary David Blunkett was not expected. Last week Mrs Blair faced criticism after it emerged she had chaired "about a dozen" such seminars at No 10 on issues including health and transport. Downing Street insisted that she had no role in policymaking.

Tonight's lecture shows Mrs Blair is determined to ride out the attacks. It is expected to be attended by a number of experts although Mr Blunkett's absence has raised eyebrows at Westminster. Downing Street said no ministers were expected.