Britain's deputy prime minister says the ruling Labour party will not tolerate any member who is considering challenging Prime Minister Tony Blair's run for a third term in office.

John Prescott told British television Sunday that Labour will "feel very strongly" against anyone threatening Mr. Blair's re-election, adding that the task now is to elect another Labour government under Mr. Blair's leadership.

Britain's Deputy PM Warns Against Any Challenges to Blair - 2004-10-03

Mr. Prescott's comments are seen as a veiled warning against Treasury chief Gordon Brown, who is viewed as a possible rival to Mr. Blair.

Britain's Deputy PM Warns Against Any Challenges to Blair - 2004-10-03

On Thursday, Mr. Blair announced plans to seek re-election for a third term. His popularity has slipped because of popular discontent over his decision to join the United States in the war in Iraq.

Britain's Deputy PM Warns Against Any Challenges to Blair - 2004-10-03