Neoliberalism embraces two apparently conflicting orientations: 'rolling back the state' in favour of private market solutions, and the consolidation of a coercive security apparatus exemplified by surveillance, workfare, and prisonfare. Using the example of recent changes in the probation service in England and Wales, John argues that these two orientations are only superficially contradictory and that, in fact, 'privatisation' can be the vehicle of increased centralisation and state coordination.