Tony Blair warns that future comparisons to Nazi Germany may not be far fetched

Tony Blair has warned that a return to the darkest politics of the 1930s is no longer a far-out prospect, after a rise in nationalist populism and the rejection of international alliances.

The former Prime Minister will today say that he has never been so worried about the future of the UK – as well as offering stark advice for Donald Trump.

In a speech to the Chatham House think tank, Blair will tell Trump that he must preserve the transatlantic alliance, or else he risks weakening the entire west as nations such as China continue to grow.

Mr Blair will say: ‘We need to know from the current American administration and its presidency that our alliance matter, that it is regarded, historically and contemporaneously, as a vital American strategic interest.’

‘We are losing sight of the values which brought the west together, saw it through the menace of fascism and communism’, he is expected to say.

Although not expected to directly accuse Mr Trump of populism, he will indirectly take aim at the President’s abrasive style.

‘Globalisation and its advocates are on the back foot. Populism of left and right meet at a certain point in denunciation of free trade arrangements, migration and international alliances’, he is expected to tell the think tank.

‘All are portrayed as contrary to putting individual national interest first.

‘Once it is clear the populism isn’t working because, ultimately, it offers only expressions of anger and not effective answers, the populists may double down, alleging that failure is the result of half-heartedness and that only more of the same will work.’

He will also take aim at Jeremy Corbyn, accusing him of ‘neglecting’ the issues related to Brexit.

We cannot go on like this. I have never been more worried about the future of our country than now, with competing emotions of anxiety and rage.

“We have a government whose every move is a calculation not about the interests of the nation, but the internal balance of advantage between the factions of the Conservative party, with the prime minister more a hostage than a leader.

“Meanwhile the leader of the Labour party neglects to lead the fight here at home over an issue which literally determines the future of Britain and where he could play a decisive role.”