Embattled Prime Minister Gordon Brown has responded to widespread criticism of his leadership, by stating that he "just wants to get on with the job of leading the country astray".

Since Labour's failure at the recent local elections, Brown has endured a torrent of criticism from people on both sides of the political spectrum.

"I have heard John Prescott's comments about me being 'prickly'", said the Prime Minister. "I will respond in the only way I know how; by getting on with work, and taking this country in a new and ultimately fatal direction".

It has been a tough first year at Number 10 for Brown, who's approval rating has sunk lower than any Prime Minister since Neville Chamberlain.

"Polls don't really bother me. What I'm concerned with is the economy. In fact, I'm very concerned with it".

Meanwhile, Cherie Blair revealed this week that her husband and former Prime Minister Tony Blair has 'secretly been advising' Gordon Brown, which the current Prime Minister strongly denies.

"The only advice he has given me is that I should resign while I'm ahead, which of course is ludicrous...I've never been ahead".