Flak-catcher

Joseph especially had been the ideal "flak-catcher” ready to turn the other cheek when abused.

I try to think of a new way of asking the Health Department's nominated flak-catcher, junior minister David Mellor, about the impending back-bench revolt over health charges.

Is the flak-catcher going to tell you not to call The Boss? It's possible, but if you invite him to the meeting too, he'll have a tough time justifying the demand.