Meanwhile, I hope we maintain some measure of self-respect and restraint as we rush to greet the "most powerful man in the world". We are now internationally recognised as an increasingly secure and self-confident nation and we should welcome Clinton with corresponding poise. Each presidential jest, nod, question, stare, frown does not warrant detailed dissection for hidden insult or subtle endorsement.
The media frenzy and feeling of immense honour bestowed running through the political class, alas, augurs badly. The implication being that some divine presence has decided to reward us-and we should display appropriate thanks. Some months ago, I was talking to an editor of one of America's leading dailies (there are only two so you can guess which one). Here is what he told me: "In the US there is nothing lamer than a lame duck president. He has literally nothing to do except occasionally campaign for his party's (presidential) nominee. You are actually doing Bill Clinton a favour by inviting him here. For a few days he'll have something to do, and for a few days he'll make real news."