Recceguy,
1. No one cares about the M2000 and whether it is FBW or not - the discussion is about the tanker autopilot responses. The whole M2000 thing is a red herring.
2. The tankers will be purchased, operated and funded by as a commercial proposition by a commercial consortium using their own funds. The government will not be involved in the purchase - as if they care since BA was sold off.