London, Oct.1 Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair is set to become the first President of the 27-member European Union.

According to The Sun, Blair will be nominated by EU leaders in Brussels if, as expected, Ireland backs the hated Lisbon Treaty in tomorrow's referendum.

A senior Government source said: "If we get a 'Yes' vote it will all move very, very quickly. Tony could be named by the end of October."

The leaders of the EU's 27 nations, not the voters, will choose the president.

Blair would not formally take up the powerful position until all EU countries ratify the treaty.

Asked if Blair was the only real candidate, French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner replied: "For the moment, indeed." (ANI)