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Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron is the latest political figure to sit down for talks with Tony Blair on Brexit and the future of “progressive” politics.

The pair met at Mr Blair’s central London offices on Monday where they discussed the EU referendum result and the opportunities for those wanting to recapture the centre ground.

A source close to the pro-EU leader denied he rebuffed the former Prime Minister’s requests for a meeting, after it was revealed ex-leader Nick Clegg had met him for talks last month.

“He may not have been as quick to respond as others but there was no snub,” said the source.

Mr Farron has been a harsh critic of Mr Blair’s foreign policy post 9/11, previously describing it as “unspeakable” but has publicly defended his record in the first few years of his time in power.

He has said he admired his ability to create an opposition that beat the Conservatives and his minimum wage, tax credits and devolution policies.

A source said: “He is not about to rehabilitate Tony Blair. He is still responsible for the biggest foreign policy disaster since Suez but he is right to note the space for the centre ground.”

The Lib-Dems hope Mr Blair’s return will also encourage Labour moderates to follow their lead and step up their campaign against hard-Brexit.

Mr Blair’s meetings with the Lib Dems comes ahead of the launch of his new organisation designed to create a space for political debate about “where western democracies go and where progressive forces particularly find their place”.