The argument that the prime minister is becoming more like the president is based on the prime minister's desire to be separated from his government. This is how the American system works – the president is in charge but must use the supreme court or house of representatives who may be run by a separate party to the president, however the prime minister is the same party as the majority in the house of commons so has complete control as his party must 'tow the line'. By detaching himself from his party and parliament he is seen more as a leader of the nation rather than his party. In some cases this allows other ministers to take the public blame for certain decisions.
             In recent year Blair has greatly increased the size of his staff in ten Downing Street. This has made Downing street more like the white house in terms of independent administration. The increased growth in number 10 places natural limits on his powers and is seen more as a sign of weakness than power – a number of
             PMs have been unable to deliver as much as they would have liked. Margaret Thatcher had around 100 staff; John Major raised this to 150 but Tony Blair has a staff of nearly 300.
             The Pm has reduced the length of cabinet meetings. Most cabinet meetings are reduced to 45 minutes. They are mainly used to finalise decisions, which have already been sorted by ministers or in one of Tony's bi-laterals. These meetings allow Tony more control over his ministers and hence the party. It is almost impossible to overpower Blair in these meetings, which allows him to be omnipotent in the matters discussed. The only man who is able to voice his opinion is said to be Gordon Brown who Blair must listen to in terms of his experience and his following and respect in the party. This solitary, Presidential style was seen in the recent Iraq conflict where the PM addressed the nation from his office which is the way in which presidents in Am...