Prescott goes on world trip

John Prescott today sets out on a world trip that will keep him out of the country until 11 December, drawing Tory charges he is taking his Christmas holiday early.

The Deputy Prime Minister's voyage will take him first to America, where he is expected to meet Vice President Dick Cheney. After that his destinations include New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia and Vietnam.

Downing Street today stressed it was an " important" journey which would include discussions on the campaign against terrorism to the problems of climate change.

Others were asking why Mr Prescott should make such a long foray overseas so soon after Tony Blair had been criticised for spending too much time abroad instead of tackling problems at home.

A Tory spokesman said: " It does seem John Prescott is taking his Christmas holiday a few weeks early. No doubt the airline industry will be glad of his support."