Brown hailed influential by Time

Bob Geldof wrote a profile of Gordon Brown for the magazine

Chancellor Gordon Brown is one of the world's 100 most influential people, US magazine Time says.

But as with last year's list there was no place for Prime Minister Tony Blair.

The list recognises "global icons whose achievements, accomplishments and innovations are having the greatest impact in 2005".

In recent weeks, the Tories have accused Mr Brown of having a black hole in his Budget, while the Lib Dems called it a "sticking plaster".

Mr Brown's profile in the magazine was written by Band Aid organiser Bob Geldof, who praised him and Mr Blair for their efforts for Africa.

"The pair's efforts give hope to the continent and could even keep millions alive," said Time.

"Many find him warm, with a sudden unexpected laugh and bone-dry wit. He is also patient. Brown seems ready to wait a while longer for the moment when many believe he will succeed Blair as prime minister."

Others from the UK on the list include yachtswoman Dame Ellen MacArthur, advertising boss Martin Sorrell, historian Timothy Garton Ash and Sony CEO Howard Stringer.

There were also places for UN secretary general Kofi Annan's chief of staff Mark Malloch Brown, evangelist John Stott, and HSBC banker John Bond.