Merrill's 'Grand Fromage'.

Christian Blanc, head of Merrill Lynch in France, is now believed to be putting his name forward to become Prime Minister of the country.

Blanc, who is already a high profile campaigner against inertia in the French Civil Service, has allegedley told friends that he was considering a bid for the Presidentcy. He now appears to have thrown his hat in the ring for the Prime Ministerial post and it is thought that he will make himself available in the event that he does not capture the more senior role.

Aged 59, Blanc has been top man at Merrills in France since 2000 and was Chairman of Air France between 1993-1997.