14 NOVEMBER 1998, Page 32

Find that apron

THE eye of the storm brings with it the eye of the camera and Sir Richard hates that, too. 'I'm basically a very low-profile and shy man', he told a House of Commons com- mittee which was asking him about his code. He then reached into his briefcase and produced a red apron with a message printed on it: 'If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.' Later he put it on to have his picture taken. It suited him, and I hope that he has still got it, for he may need it again.