I deplore the subservient way in which we, as consumers, are meant to behave towards banks and financial institutions generally. It has historical echoes of the cap-in-hand approach to the great master, seeking whatever he can give us. We all have bank accounts, cheque books and credit cards which are required for everyday business and commerce. The banks provide a service but we, in turn, are paying for it – it is not something that is being handed out free. It is not a case of touching the forelock and saying, "Thank you very much, Sir, I will not be back bothering you again". The banks have consumers' money, whether in large or small amounts, and therefore we have already gone three-quarters of the way in this barter arrangement. The banks hold our money in safe keeping but we are entitled to our full rights as consumers. That is what irks me.