Thanks for the replies but still not 100% clear.
I have found this:
"Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except:
(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card. "
Here
http://www.worldtravelguide.net/country/92/passport_visa/Europe/France.html
Not exactly official. But still unclear because we do not have a national ID card.
I'm only bothered about france because I don't expect to have passports checked on any other border crossings. When I come back to UK, immigration are not likely to say 'no you can't come back in because you only have a month left on your passport'
William, yes, passports are now a rip-off. I have 4 kids and we have to have passports for all of us. Kids only last 5 years so every year or so I'm forking out 50 or 70 pounds or whatever it is. Just to prove who I am. And it wouldn't even get me to USA, thats why I'd never go. I hear they treat you like scum on entry. Actually, sounds like our own authorities.
Simon, I understand I can apply for one early, but my point is I don't want to pay another