In addition to mounting a spirited defence against MAN’s overtures, he also finds time to indulge in a bit of military history.

But, in claiming that MAN's tactics were not too far away from those of employed during the Blitzkrieg campaign, he does seem to have stubbed his toe somewhat. And has, accordingly, apologized.

When Gerald Ratner made his infamous prawn sandwich – Ratner’s earrings comment, the fallout was considerable and our amusement immense. Obviously not as great as when Jeffrey Archer was banged up for lying, but we were still tickled puce. Whether Östling’s faux pas will be worthy of a Ratner Award remains to be seen.