SIR Michael Spicer tried to throw Tony Blair on to the defensive yesterday during the Prime Minister's last Commons appearance be-fore the General Election.

After a highly-charged exchange between Mr Blair and Tory leader Michael Howard, the West Worcestershire MP challenged the Prime Minister to confess any regrets.

Addressing a packed Commons, Sir Michael asked: "What does the Prime Minister most regret about his time in office?"

But, after a brief pause, Mr Blair would only admit he wished he had defeated more Tory MPs in the last two elections.

He said: "I think although we did pretty well, we could do with even fewer Tories. But what I do not regret is the strong economy, the investment in public services and the falling crime, and I thank him for the opportunity to say so."

It was the last Prime Minister's Questions session before Parliament is dissolved on Monday for the May 5 General Election.