The political fracas that pressed Royal Bank of Scotland's chief executive to turn down his 2011 bonus has raised questions among people close to the bank, and among analysts, about how long he will remain at the helm.

The move by Stephen Hester comes at the start of what is expected to be another fractious bonus season in the UK, as hefty banker payouts remain a cause for outrage amid the day-to-day struggles of ordinary Britons.