What he says: Insists he doesn't want M&S job: "I love Morrisons." What he means: Regards himself as a top international operator, and doesn't understand why M&S, which is smaller than Morrisons, would be a good move. Would be more tempted by the top job at a global consumer brand. Photograph: Ian Nicholson/PA Archive/PA Photos
What he says: "I would imagine there would be a very short list and I would imagine I would be qualified to do the job. Obviously it is a real ego trip to be associated with it." But: "Believe it or not, I am committed to my job and I don't spend all my time focusing on the next one."
What he means: He hasn't been approached, but expects to be. He's very ambitious. Photograph: Sarah Lee/Guardian
What he says: "I am not interested in anything at the moment apart from Booker." What he means: I have an 8% stake in Booker worth more than £35m. How can you top that? Photograph: Mike Abrahams/Mike Abrahams
What he says: "Working with Stuart is great, [he is] undoubtedly the best exec I've ever worked with. Very direct, good fun, clear, motivational. I've total respect for his leadership." What he means: He would very, very, very much like the job. Pretty please. Photograph: Marks & Spencer/PR
What this means: Er, no. It won't be her. Photograph: Nils Jorgensen / Rex Features/Nils Jorgensen / Rex Features
What he says: "I see my future at Sainsbury's... I understand why people speculate because I used to work at Marks & Spencer's, but I've moved on." What he means: Not with Stuart Rose as chairman. Maybe if Sainsbury's and M&S were to merge... Photograph: Sarah Lee/Guardian
What she says: Nothing. What she would say: No thanks, probably. She has 20% stake in Jaeger, which has just acquired high-class tailor Aquascutum too. Photograph: ALESSIA PIERDOMENICO/REUTERS
What he says: "I am very happy to rule myself out." What he means: What he says. Photograph: Linda Nylind/Guardian
What he says: He doesn't seem to be allowed to speak. What he would say: Yes please! Photograph: PR
