I think I read somewhere that bankers' bonuses form part of their work contracts so they can not be cancelled just like that. I can understand this with ordinary bank employees who don't have huge salaries but more senior bankers could easily bear the loss of their undeserved bonuses. I think investment bankers particularly are hard-wired to be greedy. They can't help themselves and feel no shame or responsibility for the crisis or the tax-payer funded solution that had to be found. We should be very suspicious when we see advertisements for banks which mention "wealth creation". That wealth is usually created using shady methods but we are all very trusting. Senior bankers need to be "dragged kicking and screaming" into doing the decent thing. If we let go they will always revert and go after the money, a bit like my stubborn little terrier who will always go sniffing after something unpleasant unless I am very firm with her The government should not be reasonable with them. Just tell them what they have to do and make sure they conform. If the government does not do its duty, then the public should pester them until they do. Sorry if I seem harsh.