If there is one phrase which has come to characterize the nature of Tony Blair's government in the public perception, it has to be "control freaks" - shorthand for an obsession with taking command of all aspects of government business and with how these are portrayed in the media. The proliferation of "Tony's Cronies" in key positions, the obsessive approach to news management, the desperate efforts to manipulate the elections for the Welsh assembly and London Mayor - all proclaim deeply rooted insecurity which can be assuaged only by exerting strict control.