ormer Treasury chief Gordon Brown became British prime minister Wednesday, promising "a new government with new priorities," after Tony Blair resigned to end a decade in power.
The United Nations, United States, European Union and Russia announced the appointment of Blair as their representative in the search for Mideast peace hours later.
Power changed hands traditionally and quietly behind closed doors in Buckingham Palace as Blair first called on Queen Elizabeth II to submit his resignation, and Brown arrived soon after to be confirmed as the new prime minister.
"This will be a new government with new priorities," Brown told reporters outside his Downing Street office minutes later.
"I've been privileged with the great opportunity to serve my country."
