I think the pilots were quite professional on this one. They let his first arrogant remark go by without discussion. It's only when he tries tricking them into responding that they explain what was going on.
Note the change in tone once he realises he was the one making a mistake... If pilots make a mistake they have to be careful. If ATC makes a mistake, they are a team.
Thanks, Digits. I was about to post something sinilar, but I couldn't have put it better!
MJ
