Juppé having conceded that he lacks the authority to mediate, he has suggested that Sarkozy might (Fillon is currently having lunch with Sarko)

We'll see if he's that dumb. I doubt it. Copé is unshakeably determined that it's his handbasket.

Any moment now, the disputes commission will announce, surprise surprise, that Copé has won.

The treasurer of the UMP has just resigned, having pointed out that the salaried staff of the organisation have been working full-time for Copé's election for weeks now. This will strengthen Fillon's legal challenge, which he will probably initiate this afternoon.

More fun to come!

_{It is rightly acknowledged that people of faith have no monopoly of virtue - Queen Elizabeth II}