Well I cam on here to post a similar question.
I emailed the passort office about my query
"Travelling to France 23 Dec 06 due back 06 Jan 07, my passort runs out on 8 Jun 07, is this ok or do I need a whole 6 months validity"
The reply I got was :
"I am sorry but UK Passport Service are not able to issue travel advice. For travel advice please either contact the embassy of the country you are going to, or the Foreign Office whose website is located at www.fco.gov.uk."
Hmmmm really helpful then!