IN blaming Saddam for lying over WMDs, Jack Straw has, in one sentence, shown his complete lack of understanding and rewritten history.

Not content with "failing to spot" Robert Mugabe (it was dark) and shaking his hand, Mr Straw has now compounded his boss's lies by justifying the Bush family's war of unfinished business with his claptrap.

It was Blair's claim that long-range WMDs could be ready to fire in 45 minutes that convinced this sceptic, and many others.

In seeking to divert the blame, Mr Straw has shown himself to be as culpable as our PM.

Apologies are not enough - both men should resign.

J D MORTIMER (Mr), Edge End Lane, Great Harwood.