[bad_good_guy]

I've had PMs always lead questions like that, using "this is probably a stupid question..." and alternatives and I came to dread discussions with them, as I knew this meeting would involve loads of wasted time constantly 'excusing' their question instead of just asking it.

[Wowfunhappy]

Just how long do they draw it out? Phrasing "So, stupid question: [insert question" really shouldn't add that much time, right? Or is the problem that the questions really are stupid?

I have a weird job title but my position is probably closer to your PM, and I also use this strategy, so I'd like to know how to not annoy people!

[cutemonster]

Sounds as if you're doing it in a good way :-) (I'm not GP)