ROCHDALE MP Paul Rowen's bid to put Tony Blair on the spot over Metrolink's future was thwarted - because he failed to address the prime minister properly.

During Commons Question Time, instead of calling Mr Blair "the Right Honourable" he referred to him as "you" and the Speaker, Michael Martin, slapped him down.

That, according to Liberal Democrats, let the prime minister off the hook and a furious row broke in Parliament.

It is understood that Liberal Democrat whips are taking the matter up with the Speaker's office and Mr Rowen slammed "antiquated rules" which had prevented Mr Blair from giving a verdict on the proposed extension of the Metrolink to Rochdale, Oldham, and South Manchester.

MPs are expected to address other members through the Speaker and not talk directly to them, so are not allowed to use the word "you", but instead use their title.

Serious

"Parliament needs to grow up - this was a serious, important question that we need answering," said the Rochdale MP.

"For the Speaker of the Commons to do this has cemented his Christmas card from Tony Blair - he did him a serious favour. But he has let down the residents of Greater Manchester.

"I will not let him off the hook, though, and will be continuing to put pressure on the government to get vital answers."

After the Transport Secretary Alistair Darling blocked plans to extend Metrolink, the Manchester Evening News launched a major campaign.

In the end, the government agreed that £550million was still on the table, providing local transport chiefs can reduce the estimated cost of the extensions from £1billion.

Mr Rowen added: "I would encourage the people of Greater Manchester to write to Tony Blair asking him whether he was electioneering when he claimed just before the election that the Metrolink would definitely happen."

Should Tony Blair answer the question anyway? Have your say.