Yes, I am aware of this also.
As I understand it, the Big Boss of Big Brother basically alienated them to the extent that they felt it was their only option i.e. Big Boss says 'expect the deal to go with us and if you are lucky you will be retrenched and made an S/O' (if you pass selection of course).
Something about keeping friends close.., oh and perhaps reaping what you sow........
Sooner or later Big Brother will wake up and smell the roses, the taxpaxer is no longer boss, it is the year 2003 we pagan mere mortals do not worship the occupant of a jumbos LH seat.