'', says Freyn with a sly pun that signals Mr Merrick's extension of Conrad's theme: the equivalence between Cowley's impoverished compu-mind and the soullessness of the imperial project.

ECONOMIST: First novels

'' Mr Merrick's book is about colonialism imperial, social and intellectual-spiritual.

ECONOMIST: First novels

In addition to Mr Johnson and Mr McNulty, the panel includes Merrick Cockell, chair of London Councils, Harvey McGrath, chair of the London Development Agency, Stuart Fraser from the City of London and other key business and union leaders.

BBC: London's new 'high-powered' help