Networking was only an excuse at the Bastille Day celebrations hosted by the new French ambassador, Maurice Gourdault- Montagne , at his residence in Kensington, where the champagne - sponsored by Mumm - flowed, while guests were treated to the best of French delicacies - foie gras, a cheese buffet, salmon, breads and ice-creams and sorbets.

Mr Gourdault-Montagne debated with investment banker Laurent Feniou the merits of caviar escargot, or the mousse-like white caviar-like snails eggs, on offer.