Tony Blair is expected be announced as a Middle East peace envoy today, as speculation grows that he may also convert to Catholicism.

The outgoing Prime Minister has discussed the envoy role with US President George Bush and White House sources have indicated an announcement was imminent.

Downing Street has declined to comment on the situation, but the United Nations has confirmed the move is "under discussion".

It would give Mr Blair a central role in future efforts to secure peace between Israel and the Palestinians, an area he has given high priority as PM.

The position has been vacant since former World Bank chief James Wolfensohn quit the post in April last year.

Mr Blair's religious future is under almost as much scrutiny as his political one.

He is expected to travel to Rome after the EU summit finishes for his second audience with Benedict XVI since he succeeded John Paul II in April 2005.

The visit has reignited speculation that Mr Blair is set to convert to Catholicism when he leaves office.

Wife Cherie is a Roman Catholic and Mr Blair regularly attends Mass at Chequers with her and their children.

The Prime Minister has insisted he has no plans to convert, and only attends services so the family can worship together.

However, it is suggested that he would wait until leaving Downing Street to avoid potential clashes such as over his role in the appointment of Church of England bishops.

There has been no constitutional barrier to such a conversion although it would have made Mr Blair the country's first Catholic premier.

source : skynews