Good to see that the extraordinary xenophobia generated when Liffe, the London International Financial Futures and Options Exchange, was bought by an exchange from continental Europe has not rubbed off on Sir Brian Williamson, its indomitable chairman. The exchange's first summer party under its new name - Euronext.Liffe - was temporarily dampened by a shower last week. The assembled crowd was quick to take cover, but no sooner were they under the shelter of a marquee than Williamson realised his error. "Rescue the French flag," he called. Very loyal.