Under questioning by MPs, Diamond said his reaction was an appreciation that Tucker was "doing his job" and that Barclays needed to ensure Whitehall -- an all encompassing phrase for British government -- knew the bank was financially stable.

CNN: Rate rigging scandal: Just the start?

Even in a predatory democracy, the government has a greater encompassing interest than a tyranny.

ECONOMIST: Out of anarchy

Over the years, the number of ministers and PPSs has crept upwards, encompassing an ever larger share of government MPs, and by implication limiting the number of potential rebels, because defiance means resignation.

BBC: Muzzled?