Naomi Seligman Steiner, deputy director of the watchdog group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, says the rise of the Internet and 24-hour cable news has empowered the public with an "insatiable appetite" for scandal.

FORBES: Magazine Article

But last month, Mr Adriano delegated hands-on responsibility of the supermarket chain to his deputy, David Bremner, to allow himself to concentrate on strategy.

BBC: Sainsbury profits slump

Mr Lyttle said the incident demonstrated the "urgent need" for the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to accept their "statutory responsibility along with the PSNI, agencies and political parties to comprehensively address the appropriate use of all flags and emblems".

BBC: UVF flag

According to the Army statement, the resignation of Kenneth A. Steadman, principal deputy in the Army's Office of Legislative Affairs, followed his decision to accept responsibility for distributing the talking points defending the Crusader to Congress.

CNN: Crusader controversy results in career casualty

Defense Secretary Robert Gates just extended Dayton's tour of duty for an additional two years and gave him the added responsibility of serving as Obama's Middle East mediator George Mitchell's deputy.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Israel and the Axis of Evil