Hampson foresaw PR crisis

Since Roger Wood first issued his order that Pétrus must not be given five rosettes, full-time AA restaurant inspectors have been aware that the affair could become a public relations disaster.

In an e-mail dated 31 May, Albert Hampson, the highly respected AA business manager of hotel services, wrote to the other inspectors.

He said: "The potential PR dangers were fully discussed and RW is, it seems, fully cognizant of the issues that could arise. Taking this into account, RW has advised that his ruling on Pétrus will stand. It will not therefore be awarded five rosettes this year.

"I appreciate that each of you have strong feelings on this but it is, as the business management team, our task to now manage this situation to the best possible end result."

He added: "Can you each now give some thought to identifying a ‘damage limitation' strategy to deal with any PR issues that may arise?"