Word has it organisers were uncomfortable this year about executives standing on stage to bang the drum for climate change, while their chauffeur-driven Mercedes and Audis purred outside or their helicopters lined up on some unsuspecting roof for a hasty exit. Surely that’s not what the “Spirit of Davos” is all about . . .

The special thing about Davos has always been that politicians, chief executives and superstars alike mingle freely, unrestricted by minders, bag-handlers and other accoutrements of fame. It’s a place where you could pop for a quick bathroom stop and find yourself standing next to Tony Blair. (Don’t laugh, it really happened). This year, however, was different. The forum seethed with bodyguards and sharp-elbowed aids hustling executives. If you did see Mr Blair, his entourage was ready to block an approach. Next year, Davos should return to its roots. The World Economic Forum Unplugged. As it was meant to be.

Of all the elite events at Davos, the greatest cachet attaches to the women’s dinner for stars, super achievers and spouses. Its charm is tarnished by the disproportion of male delegates, but, to make up for it, some guys had a surprise for the ladies. Who should emerge as a waiter for the first course but Bono, pouring Annie Lennox an extra large cocktail. And for main course, Sergey and Larry acted as servers, followed by Rupert Murdoch for dessert. Cherie Blair, however, still grumbled that at just 17 per cent female attendance, no progress has been made.

Offered one wish for 2008, Tony Blair named three: a global climate change agreement; a rescue package for the Millennium Development Goals to relieve poverty in Africa; and a peace settlement in the Middle East. As he made no mention of a new job, The Times asked him about the Presidency of the EU Council, the new post being created by the Lisbon Treaty that Nicolas Sarkozy has suggested Tony for. “How do you feel about Sarko’s suggestion?” we asked. And then we saw that familiar broad Cheshire Cat grin that has been absent from British politics for six months now – and no answer. But not a denial.

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