Odd ideas extend up the flagpole

Handover addicts have used 1997 for phone numbers, car registration plates, even as the price of July 1 souvenirs, but the Foreign Ministry has really gone out on a limb to fix the date in the hearts and minds of the faithful. They decreed that the historic number had to be the exact length of the flagpole on top of their building in Kennedy Road, to mark the year of re-assuming sovereignty.

Traditional cultural emphasis on balance and harmony has been overruled in the name of politics. So the flag above the building flutters from a long, totally disproportionate flagpole 19.97 metres high, drawing attention to the many floors still unoccupied underneath.

Because they do not need that room for their own staff, Chinese officials originally planned to build several floors into commercial car parks. Given the lack of parking space in Central, the ministry stood to make a huge profit out of that enterprise if the plan had materialised. However, they gave up the idea after being advised that it would lead to serious security problems.

Security is a constant concern. Officials also told construction companies that no materials from Taiwan or South Korea could be used in the building, to stop any spying devices being built into the walls. Altogether some odd ideas, but not so odd as having your own Foreign Ministry based on your own sovereign territory.

An unexpected guest was spotted at China's National Day bash at the Chinese Embassy in London. Entrepreneur Richard Branson mingled with dignitaries for the briefest of times, leaving almost as soon as the ceremonials were over.

Whatever can have brought the bearded one to such a solemn occasion? Could it have anything to do with hopes of securing air routes to China for his airline company, Virgin? Foreign Minister Qian Qichen told British counterpart Robin Cook that China was considering such a move, and when opportunities arise Mr Branson's not the chap to stand on the runway when he could be airborne.