But that was as far as the PR went. Poor Boy David had quite a dressing-down from the Chinese Premier. He was told by Wen Jiabao:
On human rights, China and the UK should respect each other, respect the facts, treat each other as equals, engage in more co-operation than finger-pointing and resolve our differences through dialogue. China is not only pursuing economic development but also political structural reform and improvement in democracy and the rule of law.
He then went on to say "This has taught the Chinese never to talk to others in a lecturing way, but to respect nations on the basis of equality." Wonder what the Dalai Lama would think of that!
Boy David, the old Etonian gentleman that he is, retained his cool. His charm rehearsals are paying dividends. His comments were diplomatic, to say the least. He said:
There is no trade-off in our relationship. It is not about either discussing trade or human rights. Britain and China have such a strong and developed relationship. We have a dialogue that covers all these issues, and nothing is off limits in the discussions that we have.
After much discussion, many nods and strategic smiles, Premier Wen Jiabao announced that he would be sending two giant pandas to Edinburgh Zoo as a sign that "our common interests outweigh our differences".
Wow, I thought, two giant pandas! How come no one ever sends cats as a political gesture? Come to think of it - why are the giant pandas being sent to Edinburgh Zoo. Perhaps, Mr Wen Jiabao knows more about the Scottish proposals for independence from the UK, than Boy David knows!
So - it's 'bye' from me:
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