Servants of the people? They need a slap

Last night went to see my old boss Geoff Mulgan plugging his new book, Good and Bad Power: the ideals and betrayals of government [Amazon]. Three main observations:

1. Geoff Mulgan is a very clever man and interesting speaker.

2. The book offers a fascinating insight into the tension between governments as democratically accountable 'servants', and as 'rulers' that take power to deliver security, welfare and justice. All very timely.

3. He draws on the ancient Sumerian tradition in which the High Priest slaps the King's face to remind him of the need for humility.

The third point has important and urgent relevance in Britain today...