Shadow Foreign Secretary Michael Howard has published evidence which has been submitted by the Tories to the independent inquiry being conducted by Sir Thomas Legg.

What did Blair know: Michael Howard

Last week, Mr Cook was strongly rebuked by the Foreign Affairs Select Committee for refusing to give MPs immediate access to secret telegrams about the shipment of arms to Sierra Leone.

Top diplomat Sir John Kerr was also rapped - and earlier threatened with a charge of contempt - for refusing to answer the committee's questions about who knew what and when. He told them he was acting on Mr Cook's orders.

Mr Cook insisted the committee will see the documents after Sir Thomas completes his investigation, probably next month.

Tories drag Blair into probe

In a 68-page submission, Mr Howard lists a series of issues which he says Sir Thomas should address in the inquiry.

The document contains now-familiar questions about when foreign office ministers first became aware of allegations that British firm Sandline had potentially breached a UN arms embargo, sending weapons and ammunition.

Mr Howard says it is also essential to verify the timing and extent of the prime minister's knowledge.

Pressure is continuing on the government for an early debate on the issue in the Commons.