The US Congress is to vote on an official honour for Tony Blair consisting of a chocolate Bonio and a good pat on the head. Mr Blair's handler, Alastair Woodhouse, said the Prime Minister was delighted to be considered and was bounding round Number 10 wagging his tail.

If the vote is passed Mr Blair would fly to the US to receive the honour and shake hands with George W. Bush. On his return he would have to have a special antiseptic flea wash to avoid further infestation.

Only three other chocolate Bonios have been handed out in the United States' history. They have gone to Lassie, The Littlest Hobo, and Ralph out of the Muppets. Each one is inscribed with the motto for US allies "Healus, Sittus, Beggus".