OASIS star Noel Gallagher should be urged to join the battle against youth drug-taking if he attends a Downing Street party, Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans said today.

Mr Evans, co-chairman of the all-party drugs group, warned Tony Blair that he had responsibilities to send the right message to youngsters after inviting Noel and his wife, Meg Matthews, to a star-studded drinks party next week.

Bur Mr Evans, a member of the all-party music group, refused to condemn the decision to invite Noel, despite the Mancunian pop star's well-publicised views on drugs.

He said: "I hope Mr Blair will take the opportunity to use the undoubted talents of Noel Gallagher to become part of a team to educate young people about the dangers of using drugs. "The Prime Minister has a responsibility to young people who might be attracted to the rock 'n roll.

"He has to utilise them in his personal campaign to educate young people about the dangers of drugs."

Other celebrities on the guest list for the July 30 event include Alan McGee, the Labour-supporting head of Creation, the group's record company, actor Michael Caine and cross-dressing comedian Eddie Izzard.

Mr Blair and his wife Cherie will host the reception, which is not exclusively for showbusiness people.

A Downing Street spokesman said Mr Blair had not yet had a reply from Mr Gallagher.

He added: "From time to time the Prime Minister has various receptions. It is a general reception. John Major had them as well. It is drinks and nibbles."

Meanwhile, Oasis fans will receive full details of how to reserve their tickets for the band's UK tour tonight.

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