Behind the Scenes at Copenhagen

From Our Own Correspondent

Dmitri had thoughtfully left a bottle of Vodka behind for the delegates (or the fellergates as Barrack had suggested, to raucous laughter) so everyone was able to unwind once they had gone through the pretence of putting the finishing touches to the communiqué which they had prepared earlier in the year.

First, Gordon regaled the gathering with a selection of Scottish sea shanties and then Nicolas suggested a game of Beggar My Neighbour. At least, I think that's what he said. Next Angela showed some slides of her childhood holidays on the Baltic Coast. Her parents' Trabant was much admired. Kevin wanted to read out some Australian cricket scores but was told in no uncertain terms to shut up. Lastly, Barrack brought the assembly to its feet with a selection of one-liners provided by Bob Hope's former gag team.

Unfortunately, an acrimonious note crept into the proceedings when Nicolas turned to Angela and said:

"Who is the Prime Minister of China?"

"No, Nicolas, Who is the President of China"

"But that's a different a question, Angela. My question was: 'Who is the Prime Minister of China'?"

"It's not a question, Nicolas, it's a statement of fact. Who is the President of China. When is the Prime Minister of China"

"When is the Prime Minister of China what, Angela?" When is the Prime Minister of China arriving, you mean?"

Barrack butted in: "He just left"

Gordon asked: "Who just left?"

"No, not who, when", said Angela

"How long ago?" asked Nicolas.

"How long?", repeated Barrack, "that sounds like a Chinese name to me". And they all laughed.