'Respectfully, sir -- you know we're always respectful -- in your statement this morning with President Hu, you seemed a little off your game, you seemed to hurry through your statement. There was a lack of enthusiasm. Was something bothering you?' he asked.

'Have you ever heard of jet lag?' Bush responded. 'Well, good. That answers your question.'

The president then recited a list of things of that he viewed as positive developments from his Beijing meetings, including co-operation on North Korean nuclear disarmament and the ability to have 'frank discussions' with his Chinese counterpart.

When the reporter asked for 'a very quick follow-up', Bush cut him off by thanking the press corps and telling the reporter 'No you may not,' as he strode towards a set of double doors leading out of the room.