"So, they're vigilantes? Private citizens? Interesting. By what authority do they operate, then?"
Look, this is a pointless discussion. I know what you mean, you know what we mean. Galloway is not a member of 'government' in any sense in which that phrase is used in British politics, hence the initial confusion when you asserted that. However, he is a member of the UK legislature and holding a public office as an MP.
"Galloway is not a member of 'government' in any sense in which that phrase is used in British politics, hence the initial confusion when you asserted that."
Indeed. He's not in the "administration". He is, however, an elected official, so most would consider him in "government" small "g". "government" as in the entire apparatus of the state.
"I know what you mean, you know what we mean. "
The State?