Much of the "Ian Thurso" character, and his story as presented, shares clear similarities with real-life mathematician Alan Turing,
Martha Kane was given that name in tribute to Bob Kane, the creator of Batman.
Early in the episode when Alfie leaves Esme's father's club after their meeting, a man in an animal costume walks past in the background. The costume strongly resembles that which appears in a brief but iconic scene shot in The Shining (1980).