12 JULY 1997, Page 26

Sir: In the interest of preserving Paul John- son's remaining

blood vessels, permit me to confirm that Mr Mohamed Al Fayed has never met Mr Alan Rusbridger. The only thing Mr Al Fayed has asked of the Guardian is honest and fair reporting. The only thing that the Guardian has asked of Mr Al Fayed is truthful and accurate infor- mation. They are not 'closely associated', as Mr Johnson asserts, and certainly not in the sense that Mr Johnson is with Mr Jonathan Aitken.

Mr Johnson says it does not matter that Mr Aitken lied on oath to a High Court Judge. Why? Because Mr Aitken is rich, handsome and once invited Mr Johnson to make up the numbers when Richard Nixon came to call at Lord North Street. Self- delusion of such an order is approaching an art form and might even qualify for a lot- tery grant.

Michael Cole

Director of Public Affairs, Harrods, London SW1