Thank you both for the help. The lamination will be done with polyurethane, because pva sets far too fast, and it also gives a better result with the laminations (it makes them virtually invisible). I will try doing the slats with pva, on the basis that the cleanup will be easier in between all the slats, in the fiddly gaps etc. I was also hoping to put the finish on (or at least the stain) before I glue it together. Is that feasible? (Edit: actually read all of Mike 's answer this time - will apply the finish first).
Currently I am making some new clamps (
How to make your own wooden sash cramps) but I had an epiphany yesterday - I have enough clamps (for this job, at least) but they are not long enough, so I will try making some sort of extensions for them as well. It
might work. I'm thinking piece of wood with a hole at one end for the clamp head, and a right angled piece to hold on to the work, possibly with a mortice and tenon joint. It's all a voyage of discovery at this point.
) if you were to have a little overhang of the upper body of the piece over the sub-structure you'd go from a 9-1/2 to a 10 out of 10. Just 4-6mm all round is all it needs. There's just a slight awkwardness where the ends with their excellent dovetails sit flush with the aprons below. Not a criticism so much as a critique, because it is a lovely piece.
I used to have a pint with him most days. He moved back to Alderney a few years back. I miss his company quite often. Proper Gent and great company. Please say hello from me if you do. Tell him Chris from the Tav. He'll know. 
