Gents.
The trouble is you are all too pessimistic and should look on the bright side such as this "situation" should keep Middleton in a well-paid second pensionable job for many years.
He will be able to expand his empire to the greater glory of John Middleton and the icing on the cake is he may get a Knighthood as well for all the good work he has done.
By the way, what has a "manager" who has no experience, qualifications, or knowledge of the job got to do with anything?
Know your place, keep paying your taxes and dont dare question your commissioned betters particularly if they flew Tornados!