TONY Blair is expected to become a Catholic when he steps down as Premier.

　　Senior figures in the Catholic Church in England, and friends of the Blairs, say he has wanted to convert for some time but will wait until he leaves office. But some figures in the Catholic Church privately say Mr Blair must make a choice - remain an Anglican or convert to Catholicism.

　　Mr Blair's wife Cherie was brought up as a Catholic and will accompany him to the Vatican.