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(CLOCK TICKS)
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Nothing lasts for ever.
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Even the longest, most glittering reign
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must come to an end some day.
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Who could replace her? Plenty of contenders.
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Old warriors, young pretenders.
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Lord Billsborough, say. Party Chairman.
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Too old and too familiar.
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Tainted by a thousand shabby deals.
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Michael Samuels. Too young.
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And too clever.
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Patrick Woolton.
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Bit of a lout. Bit of a bully-boy.
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Yes, it could well be Woolton.
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Henry Collingridge.
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The people's favourite.
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A well-meaning fool.
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No background and no bottom.
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What, me? Oh, no, no, no.
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I'm the Chief Whip. Merely a functionary.
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I keep the troops in line.
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I put a bit of stick about, make 'em jump.
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I shall, of course, give my absolute loyalty
to whoever emerges as my leader.
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You'll have to excuse me now.
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Henry Collingridge
is Britain's new Prime Minister.
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Today Henry Collingridge emerged
as the popular choice to lead his party
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as Prime Minister in the general election.
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Mr Collingridge, 48 years old, has served
as Minister for the Environment
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and Minister for Inner City Growth,
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and has been described
as the acceptable face of capitalism.
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Well...let's see how he does.
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Throughout the span of this government,
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we have transformed this country
beyond all recognition.
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We are now a nation of property owners,
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a nation of shareholders,
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a proud nation of men and women
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who know how to get off their backsides
and help themselves.
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We have achieved
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all that we set out to achieve.
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(APPLAUSE)
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Now is the time
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when we can afford
to share our hard-won gains
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with those less successful than ourselves.
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And now, let our watchword be this.
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Let's find the right way
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for all of our people
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to come together.
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(CHEERING)
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Bloody nonsense. All come together?
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Sounds like a motto
of a knocking-shop in Marrakech.
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Dear old Patrick.
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Knocking-shop in Marrakech!
Very wide of the mark.
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Our esteemed new leader wouldn't
know a knocking-shop if he saw one.
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His morality is strictly backstreet
Sunday school hypocritical cant
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picked up in Peterborough or Rugeley
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or some such God-awful place.
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Not that one holds that against him,
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but we started something when we let
fellows like that climb up the greasy pole.
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Good boy. My own background,
as you see, is somewhat different.
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But privilege carries responsibility.
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I am a loyal servant of the state
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and proud to be so.
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Besides, I may not think highly
of Henry Collingridge,
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but I believe he thinks highly of me.
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I have hopes of high office, I confess.
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I have been promised as much by him.
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But first things first.
We have a general election to win.
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Good evening, and welcome to "Election Special".
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The polling stations have just closed,
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and we have a long night ahead of us.
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Early indications are that the government
will be returned with a reduced majority.
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♪ For he's a jolly good fellow!
For he's a jolly good fellow!
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♪ And so say all of us! ♪
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- Ghastly people.
- OUR people.
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What was that frightful woman saying?
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Wanted the smack of firm government.
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She wanted YOU to smack her bottom.
I could see that much.
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What is Collingridge going to do for you?
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I don't know. Perhaps nothing.
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- I've done enough for him.
- More than he deserves.
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That woman thought I should be Prime Minister.
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"Glamis and Cawdor, and King hereafter".
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I think that you should be Prime Minister.
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You're twice the man Collingridge is,
or ever will be.
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Well, yes, my wife is very loyal.
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A politician needs a wife -
and other people, too, regrettably.
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A man of state needs helpers,
little elves and sprites to do his bidding.
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Even unwitting pawns
who don't know who they serve.
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Roger O'Neill,
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the party's Publicity Director,
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Lord Billsborough's right-hand man.
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(HORNS BLARE)
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Jesus, Roger!
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Ah, but that sidestep. Magical. I had
Phil Bennett with that at Lansdowne Road.
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Open the window, Rog.
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Where were you, anyway?
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Picking something up to celebrate with.
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Has his little weaknesses.
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Very...warm nature.
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Very...human.
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But I don't mind that.
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They make him more...
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They make him easier to deal with.
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Of course, one needs a sympathetic ear
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amongst the ladies and gentlemen
of the press,
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those valiant seekers after truth.
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(TV) As we wait to go over to Torbay
for the first result,
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let's see what the countrywide swing
would look like if our exit poll is correct.
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An overall majority of 31 seats
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would mean that the political map
of Great Britain would look like this.
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Jesus!
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What's this? We backed those bastards.
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- Why can't they deliver?
- They won't lose.
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Starting with a majority of 100 and losing
70-odd seats isn't a vote of confidence.
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Never a word in the polls. Nobody forecast this.
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Greville, I told you
it'll be closer than the polls said.
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They're not coming out for Collingridge.
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Thank you very much, Mattie.
That's extremely helpful at this juncture (!)
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What are we going to do? Christ, look.
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"Home & Dry." Home and bloody dry.
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- Brilliant (!) Who wrote that nonsense?
- I thought you did, Greville.
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It was dictated to me over the phone
by our proprietor, Mr Benjamin Landless.
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Even he wouldn't want the late edition
to go out looking like that.
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Mattie? Any thoughts?
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Government Majority Slashed.
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Back In By A Whisker.
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I'm Still Standing - But Only Just.
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It's YOUR job on the bloody line as well.
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Greville, we can afford to wait a bit.
It's only 20 minutes till the first result.
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Don't worry. I'll be back in just a sec.
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Come here, you.
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- Jeremy is scared shitless.
- I told him it'd be close.
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And I've told him that our analysis
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will show how his ads zapped
the target voters in every category.
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So if we win, headquarters will know
they owe it all to us. And if we lose...
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If we lose, everyone will say
we ran the best campaign ever
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and the lousy politicians blew it.
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Rog, are you OK?
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Bloody hay fever.
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Fine. Fine!
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Never better.
142
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Oh, Lord. I think this is it.
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- Terry Aloysius Alabaster...
- Happy Sunshine Party.
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..43 votes.
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- (INDISTINCTNAME READ OUT)
- Labour.
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..sixteen thousand,
three hundred and fourteen.
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- George Timothy Granville Green...
- Conservative.
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..twenty-three thousand,
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seven hundred and eighty-five.
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What's 23,000?
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Eight per cent swing.
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Majority of 30 or so, just what they
forecast in the exit poll. We're all right.
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We've just about saved our bacon.
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Well done, Roger! Well done indeed!
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If that doesn't get you a knighthood,
what will? Didn't mean to interrupt.
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- My assistant, Penny Guy.
- Delighted.
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So you assist young Roger?
What exactly do you assist him with?
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Just about anything at all.
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I say!
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Shall I, er...?
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Oh, about...15 minutes.
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Right. Bye.
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You don't have an arrangement
for leasing her out, do you?
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- Excuse me, sir.
- It's all right. I'm Charles Collingridge.
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- Here is my membership card.
- I'm sorry, sir.
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Erm...
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- It's all right, Constable.
- Ah, Teddy. I've got myself into a pickle.
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- Come on, Charles.
- I'm sorry, sir.
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Sir, the Prime Minister's expected in five minutes.
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Well, boys, we're back.
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They're all here. Is it all right for a chap
to come and drink his brother's health?
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Absolutely, Charles. We're delighted to see you.
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- Where's Hal?
- On his way, Charles. Soon be here.
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(SIRENS WAIL)
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Hal?
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It could have been worse.
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- Atchoo!
- Mr O'Neill!
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- Mr O'Neill!
- Who is it?
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The Prime Minister's office.
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I can't hear you.
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It's the Prime Minister for you, Mr O'Neill!
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(APPLAUSE)
183
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Hello.
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Yes, this is Roger O'Neill.
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Thank you.
186
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Just putting me through.
187
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Prime Minister! Many congratulations,
and how very good of you it is to call.
188
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And then I'd like to lick it all off
189
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very, very slowly.
190
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Thank you very much, Prime Minister.
That'll be very much appreciated.
191
00:12:50,640 --> 00:12:55,794
Did I say that this would be taking place
in the fifth-year dorm at Benenden?
192
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I'm overwhelmed. May I tell them that?
193
00:13:01,560 --> 00:13:05,553
The Prime Minister just wants me
to thank you on his behalf
194
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for running such a fabulous campaign,
195
00:13:08,280 --> 00:13:11,477
and he's not going to ask for his money back.
196
00:13:11,680 --> 00:13:14,478
(CHEERING AND APPLAUSE)
197
00:13:22,920 --> 00:13:25,912
- Well done!
- Thank you, Bertie.
198
00:13:27,480 --> 00:13:30,472
- Well done, Michael.
- Thanks, Lucy.
199
00:13:31,440 --> 00:13:33,431
Isn't he lovely?
200
00:13:34,520 --> 00:13:38,229
- Many congratulations, Michael.
- Thank you, Francis.
201
00:13:41,320 --> 00:13:44,118
(BUZZ OF CONVERSATION)
202
00:13:44,320 --> 00:13:47,995
So sorry. Please let me get you another one.
203
00:13:50,440 --> 00:13:55,434
Charles Collingridge. I've asked
Francis Urquhart to keep an eye on him.
204
00:13:55,600 --> 00:13:57,113
Urquhart?
205
00:13:57,320 --> 00:13:59,914
Hardly see him as a natural nursemaid.
206
00:14:00,080 --> 00:14:04,835
Not so sure. He's got a good heart
but he won't stand for bloody nonsense.
207
00:14:05,000 --> 00:14:07,309
Ideal nursemaid in my opinion.
208
00:14:07,480 --> 00:14:10,313
- He's a bore.
- Damn good thing.
209
00:14:10,520 --> 00:14:13,114
Dull dog, but sound as a bell.
210
00:14:13,280 --> 00:14:15,589
He doesn't care much for me.
211
00:14:15,760 --> 00:14:17,955
You're younger than he is.
212
00:14:18,120 --> 00:14:23,114
You're clever, and you make no effort
to hide it. You're better looking than he is.
213
00:14:23,280 --> 00:14:26,272
- And I'm Jewish.
- Well, quite.
214
00:14:26,440 --> 00:14:29,034
The odd thing about Francis Urquhart is,
215
00:14:29,200 --> 00:14:32,988
he'd never stab you in the back,
however much he disliked you.
216
00:14:33,160 --> 00:14:36,869
Not many left like Urquhart.
A dying breed, more's the pity.
217
00:14:37,040 --> 00:14:38,632
Teddy?
218
00:14:38,800 --> 00:14:40,597
He's here.
219
00:14:40,760 --> 00:14:43,354
- Coming down?
- I'll wait up here.
220
00:14:45,120 --> 00:14:47,429
(CHEERING)
221
00:14:59,720 --> 00:15:03,235
Thank you all so much. You've been magnificent.
222
00:15:03,400 --> 00:15:06,392
- How's it looking?
- 24, possibly 25.
223
00:15:06,560 --> 00:15:10,269
- As bad as that?
- It's a majority. Five more years.
224
00:15:10,440 --> 00:15:11,839
Yes.
225
00:15:12,000 --> 00:15:14,992
- Francis!
- Welcome back, Prime Minister.
226
00:15:15,160 --> 00:15:18,755
I've had one or two thoughts
about the new cabinet.
227
00:15:18,920 --> 00:15:21,514
I'm sure you have, Francis. Good man.
228
00:15:21,680 --> 00:15:25,673
- Come round first thing in the morning.
- My pleasure.
229
00:15:25,840 --> 00:15:27,239
Hal!
230
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It's me!
231
00:15:29,040 --> 00:15:31,315
Oh, God, Charlie. Not tonight.
232
00:15:31,480 --> 00:15:34,278
Don't worry. I'll look after him. Charlie!
233
00:15:35,280 --> 00:15:37,669
I've been hoping for a word all night.
234
00:15:37,840 --> 00:15:41,549
Francis. Francis Urquhart. My dear old friend.
235
00:15:41,720 --> 00:15:44,029
Do you know what I feel like doing?
236
00:15:44,200 --> 00:15:46,668
- Getting rat-arsed?
- Exactly.
237
00:15:46,840 --> 00:15:49,229
I know a good place round the corner.
238
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Splendid. Two good chaps
getting rat-arsed together.
239
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Surprised? Well, everybody
can be valuable. That's my philosophy.
240
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Mr Urquhart! Mr Urquhart!
241
00:16:11,080 --> 00:16:13,469
No, no, no. Nothing to report.
242
00:16:13,640 --> 00:16:18,270
Oh, hello, Charles. I hope you had
a little bet on the winning team.
243
00:16:18,480 --> 00:16:20,789
You understand I really can't...
244
00:16:21,000 --> 00:16:24,310
Does the new cabinet have a job for you?
245
00:16:24,520 --> 00:16:27,910
I advise the Prime Minister on many matters,
246
00:16:28,080 --> 00:16:30,275
and my advice is confidential.
247
00:16:30,440 --> 00:16:34,513
Word is that you're in line
for a senior cabinet position. Is that so?
248
00:16:34,720 --> 00:16:39,236
Don't expect me to comment on rumours
or to keep my Prime Minister waiting.
249
00:16:39,440 --> 00:16:41,908
Thank you very much, gentlemen, ladies.
250
00:16:42,120 --> 00:16:44,315
Mr Urquhart!
251
00:16:44,480 --> 00:16:46,789
Mr Urquhart, can I have a word?
252
00:17:04,400 --> 00:17:06,868
(DOOR OPENS)
253
00:17:13,760 --> 00:17:18,231
Sorry to keep you waiting, Chief Whip.
He's ready for you now. Come up.
254
00:17:18,440 --> 00:17:20,431
Thank you.
255
00:17:25,920 --> 00:17:27,911
(KNOCK)
256
00:17:28,080 --> 00:17:30,071
Prime Minister...
257
00:17:30,240 --> 00:17:32,879
Teddy. Didn't realise you'd be here.
258
00:17:33,080 --> 00:17:35,469
Pull up a chair, Francis.
259
00:17:39,520 --> 00:17:43,718
Now, I've had a careful look
at this memorandum of yours.
260
00:17:43,880 --> 00:17:46,474
You're proposing a very radical change.
261
00:17:46,680 --> 00:17:50,468
- I'd like you to tell me why.
- Well, er...
262
00:17:50,640 --> 00:17:54,030
- Just in general terms.
- All right.
263
00:17:54,240 --> 00:17:59,030
We have been in power longer than any party
since the war. It's a new challenge.
264
00:17:59,200 --> 00:18:03,352
We need to show we're not stagnating,
we're capable of self-renewal.
265
00:18:03,560 --> 00:18:08,554
Your own succession to the leadership
is a good example of that sort of thing.
266
00:18:08,720 --> 00:18:12,315
And you want to see more of "that sort of thing"?
267
00:18:12,480 --> 00:18:16,473
We've had a clear indication
that people are looking for change.
268
00:18:16,640 --> 00:18:18,710
You think so?
269
00:18:18,920 --> 00:18:22,993
The new names you've put forward
are not on the liberal wing of the party.
270
00:18:23,200 --> 00:18:27,512
- Wouldn't you agree, Francis?
- No one from the radical right, either.
271
00:18:27,680 --> 00:18:29,875
They're all good, sound men.
272
00:18:30,040 --> 00:18:32,395
Good, sound men from the Shires.
273
00:18:32,600 --> 00:18:34,830
Guaranteed to do what they're told?
274
00:18:35,040 --> 00:18:39,830
Men who have been bred and educated
in a tradition of public service
275
00:18:40,000 --> 00:18:43,788
and have proved their reliability over long years.
276
00:18:43,960 --> 00:18:46,554
Yes, that is another way of putting it.
277
00:18:47,560 --> 00:18:49,949
I see you're offering your own services
278
00:18:50,160 --> 00:18:52,151
in high office.
279
00:18:53,080 --> 00:18:55,469
You will remember, Prime Minister,
280
00:18:55,640 --> 00:18:59,633
that some months ago we talked
about the possibility that there might be
281
00:18:59,840 --> 00:19:02,035
a senior ministerial post.
282
00:19:02,200 --> 00:19:04,509
Yes, I do remember that.
283
00:19:04,680 --> 00:19:09,276
Thing do change so very quickly
in politics, don't they, Francis?
284
00:19:09,440 --> 00:19:12,910
I'm very grateful indeed for your suggestions,
285
00:19:13,120 --> 00:19:15,190
but we disagree with you.
286
00:19:17,880 --> 00:19:21,873
Do you remember Macmillan,
the Night of the Long Knives?
287
00:19:22,040 --> 00:19:26,272
Sacked a third of his cabinet.
Destroyed his government in the process.
288
00:19:27,320 --> 00:19:29,709
He was out within a year, Francis.
289
00:19:31,720 --> 00:19:34,393
Now...here is what I have in mind.
290
00:19:38,600 --> 00:19:41,876
As you see, no cabinet changes at all.
291
00:19:42,040 --> 00:19:46,795
It'll be seen for what it is -
a sign of strength and sureness of purpose.
292
00:19:48,360 --> 00:19:51,238
I hope the parliamentary party will agree.
293
00:19:51,440 --> 00:19:55,319
I count on you to press it home to them,
as Chief Whip.
294
00:19:55,520 --> 00:20:00,116
- I do assume I have your full support.
- Of course. That goes without saying.
295
00:20:00,280 --> 00:20:02,475
Good. I still regard you
296
00:20:02,640 --> 00:20:05,552
as a candidate for high office, but...
297
00:20:05,760 --> 00:20:11,517
you are the strongest and most deeply
respected Chief Whip this party has had,
298
00:20:11,720 --> 00:20:14,029
I think I may say, since the war.
299
00:20:14,240 --> 00:20:16,356
Such a slender majority.
300
00:20:16,520 --> 00:20:20,513
A good Chief Whip is more important
to me than a good Home Secretary.
301
00:20:21,720 --> 00:20:24,109
You are too kind, Prime Minister.
302
00:20:24,280 --> 00:20:26,589
Much too kind.
303
00:20:27,840 --> 00:20:29,432
Nothing!
304
00:20:29,600 --> 00:20:32,194
Nothing! Not a damn thing!
305
00:20:32,400 --> 00:20:37,872
He had the gall to say he counted
on my support! His fate was in my hands!
306
00:20:38,040 --> 00:20:40,235
Melodramatic twaddle.
307
00:20:40,400 --> 00:20:41,992
Is it?
308
00:20:43,120 --> 00:20:44,712
What?
309
00:20:47,400 --> 00:20:50,437
Isn't there...some truth in it?
310
00:20:51,880 --> 00:20:56,670
- Isn't his fate in your hands?
- No. No, no. I'm in charge of discipline.
311
00:20:56,840 --> 00:21:00,230
I can't deliver if my troops are disaffected.
312
00:21:00,400 --> 00:21:02,789
But aren't they disaffected now?
313
00:21:02,960 --> 00:21:05,155
His weakness,
314
00:21:05,320 --> 00:21:09,108
his refusal to take
responsibility for firm leadership,
315
00:21:09,280 --> 00:21:11,999
is going to bring this government down.
316
00:21:12,160 --> 00:21:16,278
Yes. And sooner rather than later, in my view.
317
00:21:18,560 --> 00:21:20,551
- Unless...
- Unless...
318
00:21:20,720 --> 00:21:23,314
he were to relinquish the leadership.
319
00:21:25,400 --> 00:21:27,595
He won't do that.
320
00:21:28,640 --> 00:21:32,633
Unless a better man
were to take the leadership from him.
321
00:21:39,080 --> 00:21:42,072
Have you any idea what that would involve?
322
00:21:42,240 --> 00:21:47,758
No, but I would imagine
that you have a very good idea, Francis.
323
00:21:48,680 --> 00:21:52,753
And I know that you're capable
of doing whatever is necessary.
324
00:21:52,960 --> 00:21:55,349
(DOORBELL)
325
00:21:55,520 --> 00:21:58,910
- We're not expecting anyone, are we?
- No.
326
00:21:59,080 --> 00:22:00,798
I'll go.
327
00:22:14,000 --> 00:22:16,514
Mr Urquhart. Mattie Storin, "Chronicle".
328
00:22:16,680 --> 00:22:19,240
Sorry. I've been trying to contact you.
329
00:22:19,440 --> 00:22:25,231
I'd appreciate help in understanding the thinking
behind the lack of cabinet changes.
330
00:22:25,400 --> 00:22:27,994
I don't mean to be rude. No comment.
331
00:22:28,160 --> 00:22:31,755
Great story. You wouldn't like us to run it.
332
00:22:31,920 --> 00:22:34,388
I beg your pardon? What story?
333
00:22:34,560 --> 00:22:38,599
"Last night there were signs
of deep division in the highest party circles.
334
00:22:38,800 --> 00:22:43,191
"Francis Urquhart, the Chief Whip,
who has been denied promotion again,
335
00:22:43,360 --> 00:22:47,148
"refused to comment on
or defend the Prime Minister's decision."
336
00:22:48,400 --> 00:22:53,793
I know you. The new girl Greville took on
when they pensioned off Cecil Roach.
337
00:22:53,960 --> 00:22:57,748
I'm the newish political correspondent
on the "Chronicle".
338
00:22:57,920 --> 00:22:59,239
Yes.
339
00:22:59,400 --> 00:23:00,879
Quite.
340
00:23:01,040 --> 00:23:03,508
Do come inside, Miss Storin.
341
00:23:11,400 --> 00:23:13,709
Oh, let me take your coat.
342
00:23:15,760 --> 00:23:17,557
Good evening.
343
00:23:17,720 --> 00:23:19,915
Good evening, Mrs Urquhart.
344
00:23:20,080 --> 00:23:22,196
Miss Storin. A journalist.
345
00:23:23,480 --> 00:23:26,074
We'll talk in my study, Elizabeth.
346
00:23:26,240 --> 00:23:29,949
My wife likes to listen to Wagner. Do come in.
347
00:23:37,000 --> 00:23:39,798
- Drink?
- Whatever you're having.
348
00:23:39,960 --> 00:23:42,554
- Whisky. All right?
- Thank you.
349
00:23:43,880 --> 00:23:46,872
Bruichcladdich...if you know your malts.
350
00:23:47,040 --> 00:23:48,837
Thank you.
351
00:23:51,920 --> 00:23:53,797
Do sit down.
352
00:24:02,120 --> 00:24:04,111
Well, now...
353
00:24:06,960 --> 00:24:08,951
Mr Urquhart,
354
00:24:09,120 --> 00:24:13,113
in my piece I'll faithfully record
your public loyalty to the Prime Minister
355
00:24:13,280 --> 00:24:17,068
and your defence of his actions -
or, in this case, lack of actions.
356
00:24:17,240 --> 00:24:20,915
But I want to understand
what people are really thinking.
357
00:24:21,120 --> 00:24:23,714
I want to know what you really feel.
358
00:24:23,880 --> 00:24:27,668
I think you'd like to talk to me,
in confidence, on lobby terms.
359
00:24:27,840 --> 00:24:31,549
- What makes you think that?
- You didn't have to let me in.
360
00:24:31,760 --> 00:24:35,753
You could have phoned Greville Preston
and complained about my harassment
361
00:24:35,920 --> 00:24:38,309
and threatened him, and he'd listen.
362
00:24:38,480 --> 00:24:42,678
Everyone knows that threats
from Francis Urquhart are not idle threats.
363
00:24:42,840 --> 00:24:45,354
- Good.
- If I betray your confidence,
364
00:24:45,560 --> 00:24:49,348
you could have me sacked
and unemployable within the week.
365
00:24:49,560 --> 00:24:53,553
- I'm going to confide in you, am I?
- I hope so.
366
00:24:53,720 --> 00:24:58,111
Everyone says, "Francis Urquhart
could tell you the answer, but he won't."
367
00:24:58,280 --> 00:25:03,274
Well, at this stage in my career, I need
to understand more than I need scoops.
368
00:25:03,440 --> 00:25:06,910
I need a friend in high places, Mr Urquhart.
369
00:25:07,080 --> 00:25:09,594
And I think you'd like to talk to me.
370
00:25:10,640 --> 00:25:13,313
And nobody knows I'm here tonight.
371
00:25:13,480 --> 00:25:15,789
And nobody will.
372
00:25:25,200 --> 00:25:28,909
Perhaps you'd like to ask me questions,
Miss Storin.
373
00:25:29,800 --> 00:25:31,995
Mattie, please.
374
00:25:32,160 --> 00:25:34,276
Yes. Mattie.
375
00:25:35,480 --> 00:25:38,677
There really is a lot of rivalry and dissent
376
00:25:38,840 --> 00:25:41,229
within the cabinet, isn't there?
377
00:25:43,800 --> 00:25:47,793
Some elements of the party,
some elements in the cabinet,
378
00:25:47,960 --> 00:25:50,155
are deeply distressed.
379
00:25:50,320 --> 00:25:54,313
They don't think the PM has
what it takes for a full five-year term.
380
00:25:54,480 --> 00:25:56,869
They see a leadership crisis looming.
381
00:25:57,040 --> 00:26:01,033
The more ambitious of them
want to be well placed when it comes.
382
00:26:01,200 --> 00:26:05,193
They're not thinking about the good
of the party or the good of the country,
383
00:26:05,360 --> 00:26:07,669
but about the next leadership race.
384
00:26:07,840 --> 00:26:12,277
One might say the same about the Prime Minister.
He's thinking about his survival.
385
00:26:12,480 --> 00:26:16,473
- Not the good of the country.
- You might say that. I couldn't.
386
00:26:16,640 --> 00:26:20,633
- If one word of this is linked with my...
- I am a lobby correspondent.
387
00:26:20,800 --> 00:26:25,191
Don't worry. It's "senior party members
and sources close to the Prime Minister".
388
00:26:25,400 --> 00:26:27,197
Good. Very good.
389
00:26:28,840 --> 00:26:32,435
Could I ask you why you've decided to talk to me?
390
00:26:32,640 --> 00:26:35,234
You don't usually give interviews at all.
391
00:26:36,200 --> 00:26:40,398
Let's say you turned up at the right time.
No, no, that's not fair.
392
00:26:40,560 --> 00:26:42,790
Things need to be aired publicly.
393
00:26:42,960 --> 00:26:45,554
I've read your stuff. It's very good.
394
00:26:45,720 --> 00:26:48,518
I think I can trust you to be honest.
395
00:26:48,680 --> 00:26:52,468
Perhaps you haven't been here
long enough to be corrupted.
396
00:26:52,640 --> 00:26:55,438
Thank you. I hope I never will be.
397
00:26:55,600 --> 00:26:57,591
Could I ask you,
398
00:26:57,760 --> 00:27:00,957
if the Prime Minister is experiencing discord,
399
00:27:01,120 --> 00:27:03,475
shouldn't he sack the dissidents?
400
00:27:03,680 --> 00:27:06,274
Get in new people and fresh policies.
401
00:27:06,440 --> 00:27:09,238
You might think so, but it isn't so easy.
402
00:27:09,400 --> 00:27:12,198
He's not certain where the danger lies.
403
00:27:12,360 --> 00:27:15,591
A flurry of changes might look like panic.
404
00:27:15,800 --> 00:27:18,792
- That's the official view.
- You don't agree?
405
00:27:18,960 --> 00:27:21,349
Of course I agree. I have to agree.
406
00:27:21,560 --> 00:27:27,556
You, on the other hand, might feel
that if you were the captain of the Titanic,
407
00:27:27,720 --> 00:27:30,234
you wouldn't say, "Steady as she goes."
408
00:27:31,200 --> 00:27:36,194
Should he...? I don't know how to put it
in a way that you'll be able to answer.
409
00:27:36,360 --> 00:27:37,759
Try.
410
00:27:39,560 --> 00:27:41,551
If I were...
411
00:27:41,720 --> 00:27:44,075
captain of the Titanic,
412
00:27:44,920 --> 00:27:48,833
which of my senior officers
should I be worried about?
413
00:27:49,000 --> 00:27:52,197
"Beware of an old man in a hurry."
414
00:27:52,360 --> 00:27:55,158
Have you heard that phrase, Mattie?
415
00:27:58,560 --> 00:28:00,551
Lord Billsborough.
416
00:28:00,720 --> 00:28:03,280
But he's Collingridge's closest adviser.
417
00:28:03,960 --> 00:28:08,158
He can't still think he could be leader?
Not at his age, not from the Lords.
418
00:28:08,360 --> 00:28:10,112
So?
419
00:28:11,240 --> 00:28:13,834
He doesn't want it for himself.
420
00:28:14,000 --> 00:28:16,673
He wants to pull the strings.
421
00:28:16,880 --> 00:28:20,270
He wants the party leadership for a protégé.
422
00:28:20,440 --> 00:28:23,432
You might think that. I couldn't possibly comment.
423
00:28:23,600 --> 00:28:26,592
- Michael Samuels?
- You might think that.
424
00:28:28,480 --> 00:28:32,473
Lord Billsborough is setting up
Collingridge as an Aunt Sally
425
00:28:32,640 --> 00:28:35,950
so that Michael Samuels can take his place.
426
00:28:37,800 --> 00:28:41,395
You might think that. I couldn't possibly comment.
427
00:28:41,560 --> 00:28:44,279
And how do you feel about all this?
428
00:28:44,440 --> 00:28:48,638
Oh, I'm just the Chief Whip, Mattie.
My feelings are neither here nor there.
429
00:28:48,800 --> 00:28:53,032
I look after morale of the back-benchers,
keep them up to the mark,
430
00:28:53,240 --> 00:28:56,437
listen to their problems,
help them out when I can,
431
00:28:56,600 --> 00:29:00,195
administer kicks up the backside when indicated.
432
00:29:00,360 --> 00:29:03,079
Just like a prefect, head of house.
433
00:29:03,280 --> 00:29:05,475
I'm sorry. That sounds cheeky.
434
00:29:05,640 --> 00:29:08,279
Not at all. That's exactly what it's like.
435
00:29:08,920 --> 00:29:11,195
Everyone says you're very good at it.
436
00:29:11,920 --> 00:29:14,115
I believe I am, Mattie.
437
00:29:14,280 --> 00:29:16,396
I believe I am.
438
00:29:19,920 --> 00:29:22,957
- Thank you for your time.
- Not at all.
439
00:29:34,520 --> 00:29:36,112
Well?
440
00:29:37,720 --> 00:29:39,915
Interesting girl.
441
00:29:40,080 --> 00:29:41,672
Clever.
442
00:29:41,880 --> 00:29:44,155
- Not TOO clever?
- No.
443
00:29:44,360 --> 00:29:47,079
Just clever enough, I should say.
444
00:29:47,240 --> 00:29:49,834
She might be the little friend you need.
445
00:29:51,040 --> 00:29:54,396
A political correspondent with her way to make.
446
00:29:55,800 --> 00:29:59,076
(BIG BEN CHIMES)
447
00:29:59,280 --> 00:30:03,796
No, Prime Minister,
I haven't seen the papers yet. Yes.
448
00:30:04,000 --> 00:30:08,869
"Speculation that the Prime Minister
was unlikely to fight another election.
449
00:30:09,040 --> 00:30:14,068
"Ministers manoeuvring for position
in the event of a leadership struggle."
450
00:30:14,280 --> 00:30:17,477
It's insubstantial. Someone's flying a kite.
451
00:30:17,640 --> 00:30:20,108
Someone's bloody well making mischief.
452
00:30:20,280 --> 00:30:25,673
"Lord Billsborough dismissed
any suggestion of a leadership election.
453
00:30:25,840 --> 00:30:30,834
"However, the Party Chairman would
be crucial during a leadership race.
454
00:30:31,000 --> 00:30:34,788
"Billsborough is known
to be close to Michael Samuels,
455
00:30:34,960 --> 00:30:37,394
"who could be one of the contenders."
456
00:30:37,600 --> 00:30:41,593
Dammit, Francis. This is the "Chronicle".
They're supposed to be our people.
457
00:30:41,760 --> 00:30:43,876
Quite right. Leave this with me.
458
00:30:44,080 --> 00:30:48,073
I'll get on to Greville Preston
and find out who's been telling tales,
459
00:30:48,240 --> 00:30:50,390
or we'll go to Ben Landless.
460
00:30:50,600 --> 00:30:55,390
Absolutely right. We don't need this
from the "Chronicle." Leave it with me.
461
00:30:55,600 --> 00:30:59,434
Thank you, Francis.
I'm very grateful for your support.
462
00:30:59,640 --> 00:31:01,835
Not at all. Goodbye.
463
00:31:05,120 --> 00:31:10,069
Now, then, Mr Stoat. You seem
to have got yourself into a bit of a mess,
464
00:31:10,280 --> 00:31:14,273
and you haven't done a lot
for the image of the party, have you?
465
00:31:14,440 --> 00:31:18,433
No, Chief Whip. I'd like to say
how terribly sorry I am...
466
00:31:18,600 --> 00:31:22,752
You should have thought of that before.
Can we do anything for him, Stamper?
467
00:31:22,960 --> 00:31:24,951
Not easy, Chief Whip.
468
00:31:25,120 --> 00:31:29,113
The sergeant is reluctant to believe
our friend here stopped his car
469
00:31:29,280 --> 00:31:31,669
to ask the way to his own constituency.
470
00:31:31,840 --> 00:31:33,558
Dear God.
471
00:31:33,720 --> 00:31:36,712
- I'm awfully...
- Do shut up, Stoat.
472
00:31:36,880 --> 00:31:39,155
I did persuade him to stretch a point.
473
00:31:39,360 --> 00:31:41,555
He won't be proceeding.
474
00:31:41,720 --> 00:31:44,518
Really? Oh, my gosh.
475
00:31:44,680 --> 00:31:48,912
- I can't begin to tell you how grateful...
- Stoat, you've been lucky.
476
00:31:49,120 --> 00:31:54,319
I heard you're thinking of abstaining
on the second reading of the environment bill.
477
00:31:54,520 --> 00:31:57,717
- Don't.
- No. No, of course not.
478
00:31:57,880 --> 00:32:00,713
Stoat, be off. Try not to be such a fool.
479
00:32:00,920 --> 00:32:05,118
If you must use whores, for God's sake
go to a decent knocking-shop
480
00:32:05,280 --> 00:32:07,794
where they understand discretion.
481
00:32:07,960 --> 00:32:11,714
- Stamper will give you a list.
- Yes, right.
482
00:32:11,920 --> 00:32:17,392
Thank you very much. I'm very... I mean,
if ever there's anything, anything at all...
483
00:32:17,560 --> 00:32:21,553
- Yes, yes, yes. Off you go now.
- Goodbye. And, well...
484
00:32:22,240 --> 00:32:24,231
Thanks again.
485
00:32:26,280 --> 00:32:28,475
What a frightful little man.
486
00:32:28,640 --> 00:32:31,029
Where do they find them these days?
487
00:32:31,200 --> 00:32:34,715
God knows. If I had a dog like that, I'd shoot it.
488
00:32:34,880 --> 00:32:36,598
Yes, quite.
489
00:32:36,760 --> 00:32:40,150
- Roger O'Neill's in the outer office.
- Oh, yes.
490
00:32:40,320 --> 00:32:43,835
I think I'll make this one a private chat, Stamper.
491
00:32:44,000 --> 00:32:46,389
Whatever you say.
492
00:32:48,280 --> 00:32:50,077
Roger.
493
00:32:50,240 --> 00:32:54,552
- Good to see you. Squash sometime?
- I'd like that very much.
494
00:32:54,720 --> 00:32:57,518
- Roger.
- Good morning, Francis.
495
00:32:57,680 --> 00:33:00,148
- I'll be on my way.
- All right.
496
00:33:00,320 --> 00:33:03,915
Have a seat, Roger. Good of you to come in. Drink?
497
00:33:04,080 --> 00:33:07,675
It's a bit early for me, but if you're offering...
498
00:33:07,840 --> 00:33:10,434
- Whisky?
- Sure. Why not?
499
00:33:10,600 --> 00:33:15,390
Wanted to thank you for the good job
you did in the run-up to the election.
500
00:33:16,640 --> 00:33:21,031
One or two wanted to make you
a scapegoat, but I'd have none of that.
501
00:33:21,200 --> 00:33:25,796
- Neither would the PM.
- I hadn't realised anyone blamed me.
502
00:33:26,520 --> 00:33:31,548
- You're not having one yourself?
- It is a bit early in the day for me.
503
00:33:38,600 --> 00:33:40,875
You've been a bit of a bad lad, Roger.
504
00:33:41,600 --> 00:33:45,388
- What?
- You've had your hand in the till.
505
00:33:45,560 --> 00:33:49,553
- Francis, you're joking...
- Expenses are paid by Central Office.
506
00:33:49,720 --> 00:33:53,998
You've been claiming quite large sums
from the advertising agency as well.
507
00:33:54,840 --> 00:33:58,435
- It's a bit naughty, Roger.
- Ah, that.
508
00:33:58,600 --> 00:34:01,194
It's perfectly simple, Francis.
509
00:34:01,360 --> 00:34:07,071
Accounting at Smith Square is so slow.
I'd wait months to get my money back.
510
00:34:07,280 --> 00:34:10,511
It's much simpler to get it from the agency.
511
00:34:12,120 --> 00:34:17,513
I've never taken a penny in expenses
that wasn't absolutely legitimate, Francis.
512
00:34:17,680 --> 00:34:21,514
Not a single penny. I swear on my mother's grave.
513
00:34:21,720 --> 00:34:24,075
£22,370
514
00:34:24,280 --> 00:34:27,272
in the last ten months, I make it.
515
00:34:27,480 --> 00:34:30,233
Here we are. Have a look at the figures.
516
00:34:30,440 --> 00:34:34,718
Might be slightly out,
but not by more than a tenner or so.
517
00:34:35,480 --> 00:34:38,950
Bit steep for a few lunches, wouldn't you say?
518
00:34:41,640 --> 00:34:43,631
It's all...
519
00:34:43,800 --> 00:34:46,030
Atchoo! Atchoo!
520
00:34:47,040 --> 00:34:49,634
Cocaine's awfully expensive, isn't it?
521
00:34:50,520 --> 00:34:53,910
Is it worth it?
They say it makes a good man brilliant.
522
00:34:54,120 --> 00:34:56,714
If that's so, you must be a genius.
523
00:34:58,920 --> 00:35:01,309
Francis, you must believe me.
524
00:35:02,200 --> 00:35:04,589
I haven't got a problem.
525
00:35:04,760 --> 00:35:07,069
I'm not addicted.
526
00:35:07,680 --> 00:35:12,470
I just use it occasionally for recreational
purposes and when I have to work late.
527
00:35:12,680 --> 00:35:16,639
I understand, Roger.
But there are not many who would.
528
00:35:16,840 --> 00:35:20,992
And I know this sounds old-fashioned,
but isn't it illegal?
529
00:35:24,400 --> 00:35:28,188
- What are you going to do?
- I know what we SHOULD do.
530
00:35:28,400 --> 00:35:32,393
Write off the money as a bad debt
and toss you overboard.
531
00:35:34,520 --> 00:35:37,034
But I must have a soft spot for you.
532
00:35:38,400 --> 00:35:41,358
I'll bail you out. I'll save your bacon.
533
00:35:41,560 --> 00:35:45,951
And in return I want
your absolute, unquestioning loyalty.
534
00:35:46,960 --> 00:35:49,713
Yes. Yes, of course.
535
00:35:49,880 --> 00:35:52,348
To me personally, not to the Chairman.
536
00:35:53,160 --> 00:35:58,553
I need someone I can trust to keep
an eye on things and help out in general.
537
00:35:58,720 --> 00:36:02,713
- Anything, Francis. Anything at all.
- All right, Roger.
538
00:36:05,920 --> 00:36:08,957
Now, listen to me very carefully.
539
00:36:09,920 --> 00:36:14,198
Why are we consorting with socialists tonight?
Isn't that against the rules?
540
00:36:14,360 --> 00:36:17,352
Not a bit of it. Steve Kendrick's not bad.
541
00:36:17,520 --> 00:36:20,034
We used to work together years ago.
542
00:36:20,200 --> 00:36:23,158
He's going to be pleased with me tonight.
543
00:36:23,960 --> 00:36:27,350
Flash git, don't you think? Fancies himself.
544
00:36:27,560 --> 00:36:31,872
- Fancies you, too.
- Everybody fancies me, except you.
545
00:36:34,480 --> 00:36:36,994
Here he comes. Teeth and tits.
546
00:36:38,800 --> 00:36:41,109
One for you, and one for you.
547
00:36:42,920 --> 00:36:46,310
- I gather you've got something for me.
- Yes.
548
00:36:47,400 --> 00:36:51,837
How do you fancy being the star
of Prime Minister's Question Time?
549
00:36:52,040 --> 00:36:54,395
Mr Kendrick!
550
00:36:56,640 --> 00:36:58,835
Number six, sir.
551
00:36:59,760 --> 00:37:03,753
I refer the Honourable Member
to the reply I gave some moments ago.
552
00:37:03,920 --> 00:37:05,911
Mr Kendrick!
553
00:37:06,760 --> 00:37:09,752
Will the Prime Minister explain to the House
554
00:37:09,920 --> 00:37:14,914
why he is not going ahead
with the hospital expansion programme?
555
00:37:15,080 --> 00:37:17,389
(SHOUTING)
556
00:37:20,600 --> 00:37:25,071
I note the Honourable Member's
concern with the health service.
557
00:37:25,240 --> 00:37:27,754
I remind him that under this government
558
00:37:27,920 --> 00:37:32,118
the health service has enjoyed
an annual increase of 7%.
559
00:37:32,280 --> 00:37:34,874
7% in real terms.
560
00:37:35,040 --> 00:37:40,319
Furthermore, the health service has
benefited more than any other service
561
00:37:40,520 --> 00:37:43,398
from our determination to reduce inflation
562
00:37:43,600 --> 00:37:47,593
and to operate
in a sensible and cost-efficient way.
563
00:37:47,760 --> 00:37:51,594
- Answer the question!
- That is what I'm doing.
564
00:37:53,640 --> 00:37:58,191
This government made a commitment
to expand the hospital building programme.
565
00:37:58,400 --> 00:38:00,868
(CATCALLS)
566
00:38:01,080 --> 00:38:03,310
It is not this government's practice
567
00:38:03,520 --> 00:38:05,715
to discuss the specifics...
568
00:38:05,880 --> 00:38:09,589
- (SHOUTING)
- It is not this government's practice
569
00:38:09,760 --> 00:38:13,958
to discuss the specifics of new
spending plans in terms of precise dates.
570
00:38:19,560 --> 00:38:21,869
Order! Order!
571
00:38:22,640 --> 00:38:24,949
- I refuse...
- Order!
572
00:38:27,200 --> 00:38:29,316
I am not prepared...
573
00:38:29,520 --> 00:38:32,318
(UPROAR)
574
00:38:33,840 --> 00:38:36,149
I am not prepared...
575
00:38:36,360 --> 00:38:38,749
- I refuse to...
- Order!
576
00:38:40,320 --> 00:38:42,709
Order! Order!
577
00:38:42,880 --> 00:38:44,472
Order!
578
00:38:48,320 --> 00:38:53,110
How did that bastard Kendrick know?
The cabinet didn't know till this morning.
579
00:38:53,280 --> 00:38:57,671
No time. It must have leaked out
of yesterday's cabinet committee meeting.
580
00:38:57,840 --> 00:39:00,229
Peter McKenzie was upset about cuts.
581
00:39:00,440 --> 00:39:03,671
He wouldn't leak to an opposition MP.
582
00:39:03,880 --> 00:39:09,113
Then who did? I want him found.
I want an example made of the bastard.
583
00:39:09,320 --> 00:39:13,313
I think it was someone who wanted
to make things difficult for you.
584
00:39:13,480 --> 00:39:18,395
That's why it was leaked to Kendrick
rather than the press.
585
00:39:18,600 --> 00:39:20,875
It may be someone very close to you.
586
00:39:21,640 --> 00:39:25,633
Someone you've always trusted
and who now wants to break you.
587
00:39:27,480 --> 00:39:29,471
Henry, I've just heard.
588
00:39:30,080 --> 00:39:32,071
I came straight over.
589
00:39:33,120 --> 00:39:35,918
Later, Teddy, if you'd be so good.
590
00:39:36,080 --> 00:39:40,471
I...just have to chew over a few things
with Francis here.
591
00:39:40,640 --> 00:39:42,039
Yes.
592
00:39:42,240 --> 00:39:44,549
Yes, of course. I'll...
593
00:39:45,400 --> 00:39:47,709
..come back later, then.
594
00:39:51,960 --> 00:39:57,751
Those of us who care for the nation's defence
have been astonished to hear
595
00:39:57,920 --> 00:40:02,357
that confidential documents
have been left in a public house.
596
00:40:04,400 --> 00:40:07,790
And they have rather less surprisingly
597
00:40:07,960 --> 00:40:12,158
found their way into the pages
of the "Independent" newspaper.
598
00:40:13,960 --> 00:40:18,272
We have been gravely alarmed
to read in these documents
599
00:40:18,440 --> 00:40:23,230
of huge, unnecessary and positively dangerous cuts
600
00:40:23,400 --> 00:40:25,914
in the Territorial Army establishment.
601
00:40:28,120 --> 00:40:32,591
Does the Prime Minister understand
the damage that will be done
602
00:40:32,760 --> 00:40:35,672
to the government's support?
603
00:40:35,880 --> 00:40:39,589
Will the Leader of the House allow time
604
00:40:39,760 --> 00:40:43,833
to debate and to reverse this decision?
605
00:40:44,040 --> 00:40:46,156
Hear, hear!
606
00:40:49,280 --> 00:40:51,748
I remind my Right Honourable Friend
607
00:40:51,960 --> 00:40:55,191
that to discuss the contents
of this stolen document
608
00:40:55,360 --> 00:40:57,555
is tantamount to condoning theft.
609
00:40:58,800 --> 00:41:03,396
- Point of order, Mr Speaker!
- Point of order. Sir Jasper Grainger.
610
00:41:03,560 --> 00:41:05,949
Would you not agree, Mr Speaker,
611
00:41:06,120 --> 00:41:09,908
that not to discuss the content
of this stolen document
612
00:41:10,080 --> 00:41:14,995
would be a breach of faith, a betrayal
by the government of its supporters?
613
00:41:20,840 --> 00:41:24,389
Mr Speaker, my Right Honourable Friends and I
614
00:41:24,600 --> 00:41:27,194
have listened to the mood of the House.
615
00:41:28,720 --> 00:41:32,713
In the light of representations
put from all sides today,
616
00:41:32,880 --> 00:41:37,271
the government, which prides itself
on being a listening government...
617
00:41:37,440 --> 00:41:39,635
(UPROAR)
618
00:41:39,800 --> 00:41:41,392
Order!
619
00:41:42,880 --> 00:41:45,599
The government will temporarily...
620
00:41:47,400 --> 00:41:51,757
..rescind the cuts while it takes
a further look at the whole question.
621
00:41:51,920 --> 00:41:54,115
Resign!
622
00:41:54,320 --> 00:41:57,437
- Resign!
- Order! Order!
623
00:42:02,120 --> 00:42:04,918
Mr Urquhart! Mr Urquhart!
624
00:42:06,280 --> 00:42:11,274
- Could you spare me a few seconds?
- Ah, Miss Storin. Yes, I think I could.
625
00:42:11,440 --> 00:42:13,749
Let's go over there.
626
00:42:16,440 --> 00:42:18,431
I've been following your work.
627
00:42:18,600 --> 00:42:22,593
So has the Prime Minister,
though he's not quite such an admirer.
628
00:42:22,800 --> 00:42:27,794
- He had a terrible day today.
- A Prime Minister can change his mind.
629
00:42:27,960 --> 00:42:31,953
Though we're not often privileged
to see him do it in public.
630
00:42:32,120 --> 00:42:34,509
Well, it'll all blow over, I dare say.
631
00:42:34,680 --> 00:42:39,310
Will it? Two major leaks in less than a month.
Where are they from?
632
00:42:39,520 --> 00:42:45,197
I don't know. I'm responsible
for the back-benchers, not the cabinet.
633
00:42:45,400 --> 00:42:47,868
I dare say I'll be asked to find out.
634
00:42:48,080 --> 00:42:50,548
The leaks are coming out of the cabinet?
635
00:42:50,720 --> 00:42:54,713
The Prime Minister is investigating
his own closest colleagues?
636
00:42:54,920 --> 00:42:59,118
You might think that. I couldn't possibly comment.
637
00:43:00,520 --> 00:43:02,317
Thank you.
638
00:43:03,560 --> 00:43:08,350
All right! Don't tell me about it!
DO something about it!
639
00:43:09,120 --> 00:43:13,716
That is exactly what is wrong
with this goddamn country.
640
00:43:13,880 --> 00:43:16,269
Everyone wants to give you their analysis
641
00:43:16,440 --> 00:43:20,228
of what's wrong
and why nothing ever goddamn works!
642
00:43:20,400 --> 00:43:25,190
Nobody wants to get off their butt
and MAKE the goddamn thing work!
643
00:43:25,360 --> 00:43:30,753
London! Jesus! I'd rather
run a business in the Solomon Islands!
644
00:43:30,920 --> 00:43:33,718
Thoughts of a newspaper proprietor.
645
00:43:33,880 --> 00:43:38,192
- He may be right. Oh, God!
- What are you working on?
646
00:43:39,040 --> 00:43:43,033
It's a thing about the leaks.
Urquhart's leading the witch-hunt.
647
00:43:43,200 --> 00:43:46,670
I do think he has a sort of... I don't know.
648
00:43:47,400 --> 00:43:49,675
..magnetism about him.
649
00:43:49,840 --> 00:43:52,035
Kissinger syndrome.
650
00:43:54,640 --> 00:43:56,949
The aphrodisiac effect of power.
651
00:43:58,080 --> 00:44:02,073
- I guess that must be it.
- Not much chance for the likes of me.
652
00:44:02,280 --> 00:44:07,479
Women don't tremble at the unbridled
domination of the deputy editor.
653
00:44:07,640 --> 00:44:10,871
Well, no. You've got a nice face, though.
654
00:44:12,680 --> 00:44:17,276
I don't know what's the matter with him,
Francis. I feel he's not listening.
655
00:44:17,440 --> 00:44:20,113
As though he doesn't trust me any more.
656
00:44:20,320 --> 00:44:23,312
He owes it all to you. He recognises that.
657
00:44:23,480 --> 00:44:26,552
But he doesn't trust any of us any more.
658
00:44:26,760 --> 00:44:31,390
It's very distressing. How can we help
the man when he won't let us help him?
659
00:44:31,600 --> 00:44:35,593
Well, I'll continue to put the fear of God
into the troops as long as I can.
660
00:44:35,760 --> 00:44:39,230
But there comes a time... Not yet, of course.
661
00:44:39,440 --> 00:44:41,908
Yes, yes, yes, quite.
662
00:44:42,080 --> 00:44:45,789
You will keep me informed, won't you, Francis?
663
00:44:45,960 --> 00:44:49,635
Now more than ever he needs wise counsel.
664
00:44:49,840 --> 00:44:52,308
Of course I will, Teddy. Goodbye, now.
665
00:44:53,000 --> 00:44:55,468
I think Lord Billsborough's losing touch.
666
00:44:55,640 --> 00:44:59,030
Shame. Was a hell of an operator in his day.
667
00:44:59,200 --> 00:45:01,475
Well, work to do.
668
00:45:06,480 --> 00:45:11,076
Well, yes. A couple of leaks are all very well,
but it takes more than that.
669
00:45:11,240 --> 00:45:13,549
A big scandal, perhaps.
670
00:45:13,720 --> 00:45:18,316
A political scandal. Or a scandal
about something people really understand.
671
00:45:18,480 --> 00:45:20,755
Sex. Or money.
672
00:45:23,920 --> 00:45:26,639
£50,000, Mr Urquhart.
673
00:45:26,840 --> 00:45:30,355
It's a very generous donation, Mr Jhabwala.
674
00:45:30,520 --> 00:45:34,513
We don't often see such large sums in cash.
675
00:45:34,680 --> 00:45:39,674
I'm a little old-fashioned.
I prefer to trust cash rather than cashiers.
676
00:45:39,840 --> 00:45:44,630
Strictly speaking, you should hand it
to the Party Treasurer, not to me.
677
00:45:44,800 --> 00:45:48,918
But you are my Member of Parliament,
Mr Urquhart. I know you.
678
00:45:49,120 --> 00:45:54,114
I trust you. Oh, I'm sure
the Party Treasurer is an excellent man.
679
00:45:54,280 --> 00:45:58,193
But you, Mr Urquhart...you are my friend.
680
00:45:58,400 --> 00:46:01,437
Well, I'm very touched, erm...
681
00:46:01,640 --> 00:46:04,234
And no, I hope to gain nothing.
682
00:46:04,400 --> 00:46:08,598
Except...my wife and I would be thrilled
to meet the Prime Minister
683
00:46:08,800 --> 00:46:11,314
if he should ever visit the constituency.
684
00:46:11,480 --> 00:46:13,869
I'm sure that can be arranged.
685
00:46:35,920 --> 00:46:38,593
(SNORTING)
686
00:46:44,880 --> 00:46:47,474
Accommodation address.
687
00:46:47,640 --> 00:46:50,632
Three months' payment in advance.
688
00:46:50,800 --> 00:46:55,271
- Fine. You're working round here now?
- Yeah, that's right.
689
00:46:55,480 --> 00:46:59,519
- And the name is?
- Collingridge. C Collingridge.
690
00:47:01,000 --> 00:47:02,797
Right.
691
00:47:02,960 --> 00:47:06,953
I might look you up myself one of these days.
692
00:47:07,120 --> 00:47:12,353
- Do you specialise at all, like?
- Yeah. Verbal abuse, colonic irrigation.
693
00:47:14,240 --> 00:47:16,629
- Bye, then.
- Bye.
694
00:47:26,800 --> 00:47:28,791
Nasty little man.
695
00:47:29,000 --> 00:47:33,994
- It was all right, though?
- Yes. Couldn't Charlie Collingridge do it?
696
00:47:34,160 --> 00:47:38,153
It's a waste of money
paying me 18 grand to run errands.
697
00:47:38,320 --> 00:47:43,030
- I'm supposed to be the brains.
- You are. You are, I swear it.
698
00:47:43,200 --> 00:47:47,591
Well, what's he want it for?
Don't tell me he's going on the game.
699
00:47:47,760 --> 00:47:51,150
Hardly. PM's brother needs to be careful.
700
00:47:51,320 --> 00:47:54,357
I don't know what it's for. Spanking mags?
701
00:47:54,560 --> 00:47:58,348
- Using his real name?
- Ours is not to reason why.
702
00:47:58,520 --> 00:48:03,719
We're doing a favour. The request came
from the top. We don't breathe a word.
703
00:48:31,800 --> 00:48:35,588
- You wish to open the account with...?
- £50,000.
704
00:48:35,760 --> 00:48:38,638
- Excellent.
- In cash.
705
00:48:40,760 --> 00:48:44,548
Excellent. A high-interest current account, sir?
706
00:48:44,720 --> 00:48:47,518
No. I shan't draw on it immediately.
707
00:48:47,680 --> 00:48:52,470
- Could I purchase shares through you?
- But of course. It would be a pleasure.
708
00:48:52,640 --> 00:48:55,029
Mendox Chemicals.
709
00:48:55,200 --> 00:48:59,990
20,000. You should be able
to get them for about 240 pence.
710
00:49:00,160 --> 00:49:04,153
Um...I'm rather pressed for time.
Could I leave that with you?
711
00:49:04,320 --> 00:49:07,676
We should be able to confirm it by four.
712
00:49:07,880 --> 00:49:13,477
- Excellent. Thank you very much.
- Not at all, Mr Collingridge. A pleasure.
713
00:49:18,200 --> 00:49:21,590
Junior Minister of Health, Mrs Makepeace.
714
00:49:21,760 --> 00:49:24,149
Mr Speaker, I'd like to make a statement.
715
00:49:24,320 --> 00:49:28,313
The Department of Health,
on the advice of the Chief Medical Officer,
716
00:49:28,480 --> 00:49:31,278
has today licensed three new drugs.
717
00:49:31,440 --> 00:49:36,434
Cybernox, manufactured
by Mendox Chemical Company,
718
00:49:36,600 --> 00:49:41,310
with general application in the treatment
of rheumatoid arthritis...
719
00:49:42,360 --> 00:49:46,876
Charles Collingridge here.
You opened an account for me last week.
720
00:49:47,040 --> 00:49:49,634
I'm afraid I've had to alter my plans.
721
00:49:49,800 --> 00:49:53,588
Negotiations on the hotel in Turkey
have fallen through,
722
00:49:53,760 --> 00:49:57,469
and I'm flying back to Kenya
at the end of the week.
723
00:49:57,640 --> 00:50:01,838
Well, can't be helped. Had a bit of luck
with those Mendox shares, though.
724
00:50:02,000 --> 00:50:04,389
Should clear 9 or 10,000 on them.
725
00:50:04,560 --> 00:50:08,348
Can you sell those today at anything over 295?
726
00:50:08,520 --> 00:50:12,513
I'll come in tomorrow morning to close the account.
727
00:50:12,680 --> 00:50:17,071
Can you send a closing statement
to my London address?
728
00:50:17,240 --> 00:50:19,231
Charles Collingridge,
729
00:50:19,400 --> 00:50:21,709
216 Praed Street,
730
00:50:21,880 --> 00:50:23,472
W2.
731
00:50:25,080 --> 00:50:27,753
Thank you for all your help. Goodbye.
732
00:50:29,640 --> 00:50:34,270
- Not working this morning, Francis?
- Oh, yes, Elizabeth, I am working.
733
00:50:34,480 --> 00:50:38,268
I'm working very well, as a matter of fact.
734
00:50:39,360 --> 00:50:44,354
Very good of you to come in, Humphrey.
I didn't feel comfortable with this money.
735
00:50:44,520 --> 00:50:47,512
50,000. What's he hoping to get?
736
00:50:47,680 --> 00:50:50,194
Five minutes with the PM, he says.
737
00:50:50,360 --> 00:50:52,749
Bit more than the going rate, isn't it?
738
00:50:52,920 --> 00:50:56,913
I'll write to Mr Jhabwala today.
Chaps like him should be encouraged.
739
00:50:57,080 --> 00:50:59,913
- Indeed.
- I'll see the PM is informed.
740
00:51:00,120 --> 00:51:02,395
About time he heard a bit of good news.
741
00:51:06,120 --> 00:51:08,509
(CHIMING)
742
00:51:41,480 --> 00:51:43,675
Mr Urquhart.
743
00:51:44,440 --> 00:51:46,749
Good morning, Mattie.
744
00:51:49,800 --> 00:51:53,793
I couldn't believe it when you said
"roof garden". I'd no idea it was here.
745
00:51:53,960 --> 00:51:58,954
Surprisingly few people know about it.
Good place to get away from the rabble.
746
00:51:59,880 --> 00:52:02,269
So, what was it, Mattie?
747
00:52:02,440 --> 00:52:07,514
Thanks for your help over the last couple
of months. Must be glad they're over.
748
00:52:07,720 --> 00:52:10,109
Well, we've known easier times.
749
00:52:10,280 --> 00:52:14,592
What makes you think the summer's
going to be any better for us?
750
00:52:14,760 --> 00:52:16,955
What do you mean?
751
00:52:17,120 --> 00:52:22,114
Can I say something in absolute confidence,
not even on lobby terms?
752
00:52:22,280 --> 00:52:25,238
Yes. Yes, of course you can.
753
00:52:27,600 --> 00:52:31,673
I've heard that the tabloids are going
to mount a personal attack on the PM.
754
00:52:31,880 --> 00:52:36,078
- A nasty one. They're going to use his brother.
- His brother?
755
00:52:36,280 --> 00:52:41,308
Charles Collingridge. You know him?
Between the two of us, he's a liability.
756
00:52:41,520 --> 00:52:43,909
Alcohol problem. Debts everywhere.
757
00:52:44,080 --> 00:52:48,119
When he's had too much to drink,
he's not sure of his sexual orientation.
758
00:52:49,240 --> 00:52:54,234
See the problem? If the PM disowns
his brother, he's a heartless bastard.
759
00:52:54,400 --> 00:52:59,190
If he stands by him, he's a security risk.
That's how they'll play it.
760
00:53:00,000 --> 00:53:02,195
Why are you telling me?
761
00:53:02,360 --> 00:53:07,388
Because I think you're a responsible
and honourable journalist. I trust you.
762
00:53:07,600 --> 00:53:09,158
And...
763
00:53:09,320 --> 00:53:14,314
well, because I think we're going
to need all the friends we can get.
764
00:53:14,480 --> 00:53:19,474
There isn't any chance he's involved
in something unsavoury with his brother?
765
00:53:19,680 --> 00:53:21,671
Oh, no.
766
00:53:21,840 --> 00:53:27,312
No, I'm sure there isn't. He's fond
of his brother, but he's not a complete fool.
767
00:53:27,520 --> 00:53:32,514
You'd have to say that. You'd cover up
for him even if there was something.
768
00:53:32,680 --> 00:53:35,558
Perhaps. But there isn't, is there?
769
00:53:37,800 --> 00:53:40,792
He seems to need a lot of propping up.
770
00:53:40,960 --> 00:53:43,554
Well, that's all part of my job.
771
00:53:43,720 --> 00:53:46,518
And it's all worth it, wouldn't you say?
772
00:53:47,480 --> 00:53:53,350
Since you ask, no. I think there's
at least one man who'd make a better leader.
773
00:53:57,200 --> 00:53:59,794
You might think that, Mattie.
774
00:54:00,680 --> 00:54:03,274
I couldn't possibly comment.