[quote=@Byrd Man]It's not so much the character, it's the lack of appearances in comics? By that rule, I could play Bilbo Baggins because there's Hobbit graphic novels. I just think it depends on how well the character fits into the world. As long as it's not too out there (looking at you, manga) then it should be good to go. I didn't realize a middle-aged desk jockey would cause such a stir.[/quote]

Why not both? He barely appears and is barely what you call a character. That he's a reference to George Smiley is likely, but it's not confirmed. So he's George, M's secretary.

And let's not call this is a stir. I'm just voicing my opinion - and without support at that. So again, I'm fine with whatever outcome. I certainly don't want to hinder you in the story you want to tell.