Cherie to be granted city freedom

Mrs Blair will receive the title as Cherie Booth

Cherie Blair is to be granted the Freedom of the City of London.

The honour dates from 1237 and bestows such privileges as the right to herd sheep, carry a sword and be drunk and disorderly without fear of arrest.

Mrs Blair will be awarded the Freedom as Cherie Booth, her maiden name and the name she uses as a barrister.

All recipients must read the "Declaration of a Freeman", an oath to the Queen and the City, at the ceremony.

Mrs Blair will receive an inscribed parchment and a copy of the "Rules for the Conduct of Life", written in the 18th Century.

At date for the ceremony has yet to be set, said a City of London spokesman.