The lurid, over-the-top language of Ken Follett's remarks show why he is better known for his fiction than for his judgment Labour spokesman

As a long-standing Labour activist and prolific fundraiser for the party the novelist's remarks are bound to be taken seriously, Westminster watchers say.

But a Labour spokesman was dismissive of Mr Follett's criticisms and said the author was opting for the "easy voice of opposition".

He added: "It is sad to see people who purport to be on the Left peddling the propaganda of the Right.

"The lurid, over-the-top language of Ken Follett's remarks show why he is better known for his fiction than for his judgment."

Cardiff-born Mr Follett raised millions of pounds for the Labour Party in the run-up to the 1997 general election.

His wife Barbara, 57, was elected MP for Stevenage in 1997 and was celebrated as one of the "Blair babes".

The couple, who married in 1985, had been part of the Blairs' influential circle of friends.

But in 1995 they began to fall from favour when the press were tipped off about the Blairs' attendance at a fundraising dinner at the Folletts' �4.5m mansion in Chelsea.

Mr Follett's criticisms come at a crucial time for Tony Blair as he seeks to restore his government's reputation amidst mounting concern about New Labour's pre-occupation with spin.

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