Now that's what I call a presidential candidate!

[Banquo's Ghost]

Ségolène Royal has won the socialist party's nomination for the presidential race in France next year.

She has some interesting, if undeveloped ideas and may well be the breath of fresh air French governance needs, without being an Anglo-Saxon firebreather bent on alien reform.

I addition to which, she will be by far the hottest president of modern times anywhere in the world. French, intellectual, charismatic and fabulous in a bikini. The older woman of my dreams.

More seriously, by 2008 will we see the major countries of the world led by women? (Yes, I am convinced David Cameron is a girlie ). I know some US orgahs will be choking on their wheety-bangs at the mere thought of Hilliary anywhere near the White House, but indulge me.

Do you think women as leaders make a significant difference to policy or implementation? Do they over-compensate in a male-dominated environment, or flourish? Is there any evidence? If countries like the USA, France and Germany are led by women at the same time, will this influence international discourse positively or negatively?