1 00:00:55,760 --> 00:01:00,551 There are men - I count myself amongst them - who cannot bear to be idle. 2 00:01:01,474 --> 00:01:05,673 I could reveal that the Prime Minister and his brother are both implicated 3 00:01:06,020 --> 00:01:08,819 in an outrageous piece of insider dealing. 4 00:01:09,106 --> 00:01:12,702 But I think we'll let that one mature a little first. 5 00:01:13,027 --> 00:01:19,024 But we need to keep Charles and Henry Collingridge in the public eye, if possible. 6 00:01:19,450 --> 00:01:23,842 And the press are grateful for anything in the silly season. 7 00:01:24,204 --> 00:01:27,800 Now, the Prime Minister usually takes the precaution 8 00:01:28,125 --> 00:01:32,119 of packing his embarrassment of a brother somewhere well out of sight 9 00:01:32,462 --> 00:01:34,658 until the end of September. 10 00:01:34,923 --> 00:01:39,714 Some rural French slum in the Poitou-Charentes this year, I gather, 11 00:01:40,094 --> 00:01:42,893 where Charlie could get peacefully blotto 12 00:01:43,181 --> 00:01:47,494 while the Prime Minister saves his money and holidays at home, 13 00:01:47,852 --> 00:01:51,846 posing as a country gentleman at Chequers. 14 00:01:53,190 --> 00:01:57,184 So it was most unfortunate when someone tipped off the tabloids 15 00:01:57,528 --> 00:01:59,724 about Charles's holiday address. 16 00:02:00,781 --> 00:02:04,775 Bastards. What the hell has poor old Charlie done to deserve that? 17 00:02:05,119 --> 00:02:07,554 Just has the bad luck to be my brother. 18 00:02:07,871 --> 00:02:11,706 Most families have someone who can't make it on their own. 19 00:02:12,084 --> 00:02:13,564 Right. 20 00:02:13,794 --> 00:02:15,592 You're right. 21 00:02:16,296 --> 00:02:20,290 If I stick by Charlie, people will respect me all the more for it. 22 00:02:20,675 --> 00:02:24,669 I'd like to think you did it for him, not just for the opinion polls, Hal. 23 00:02:25,013 --> 00:02:27,005 Well, of course. 24 00:02:28,850 --> 00:02:31,649 Duty and self-interest happily coinciding. 25 00:02:32,353 --> 00:02:33,946 For once. 26 00:02:35,314 --> 00:02:37,704 Then comes the conference season. 27 00:02:37,984 --> 00:02:41,580 Good morning. Opposition did rather well this year. 28 00:02:41,904 --> 00:02:45,898 Abandoned their usual tactic of shooting themselves in the foot. 29 00:02:46,242 --> 00:02:50,634 Had a go at us instead. Especially the Prime Minister, I'm sorry to say. 30 00:02:50,996 --> 00:02:52,988 Most unsporting. 31 00:02:53,248 --> 00:02:55,444 Good morning, Teddy! 32 00:02:56,168 --> 00:03:00,162 It's important that our Party Chairman gets his fine-tuning right 33 00:03:00,505 --> 00:03:02,701 before we all sally off to Brighton. 34 00:03:02,966 --> 00:03:07,643 The essential thing is to present a totally united and confident front. 35 00:03:08,054 --> 00:03:11,047 Avoid any impression of complacency. 36 00:03:11,349 --> 00:03:13,659 The natural party of government, 37 00:03:13,977 --> 00:03:17,971 but at the same time, a listening government. 38 00:03:18,314 --> 00:03:20,385 - Roger. - Thank you, sir. 39 00:03:21,526 --> 00:03:26,521 The big banner, and that's the spirit and the theme of this year's conference, 40 00:03:26,906 --> 00:03:29,296 prompted by the PM's last speech, 41 00:03:29,575 --> 00:03:32,488 is "Finding the right way." 42 00:03:33,829 --> 00:03:37,027 - Patrick? - I don't mind "the right way". 43 00:03:37,333 --> 00:03:39,529 "Finding" is a bit bloody silly. 44 00:03:39,835 --> 00:03:42,714 We should have found the way by now. 45 00:03:43,005 --> 00:03:47,602 Are we the natural party of government or the babes in the bloody wood? 46 00:03:47,968 --> 00:03:53,168 I take your point, but market research shows us to be too sure of ourselves. 47 00:03:53,557 --> 00:03:58,268 So we bloody well should be. People aren't going to vote for "don't knows". 48 00:03:58,686 --> 00:04:03,920 - Perhaps "Going the right way"? - Implies that someone in the party 49 00:04:04,359 --> 00:04:08,273 is on the way out, don't you think, with the greatest respect. 50 00:04:08,654 --> 00:04:10,850 Going, going, gone. 51 00:04:11,115 --> 00:04:14,665 Thank you, Francis. A good point. 52 00:04:36,056 --> 00:04:38,446 Out! Out! Out! 53 00:04:47,317 --> 00:04:49,434 - He's arrived. - Who? 54 00:04:49,694 --> 00:04:53,051 - Our leader, Elizabeth. Who else? - The broken reed. 55 00:04:53,406 --> 00:04:55,796 The man of straw. 56 00:04:56,075 --> 00:05:00,672 "Good things of day begin to droop and drowse." 57 00:05:08,671 --> 00:05:11,266 A party conference can be many things. 58 00:05:12,174 --> 00:05:14,370 A show of confidence. 59 00:05:14,676 --> 00:05:17,236 An agonising reappraisal. 60 00:05:18,805 --> 00:05:22,799 Or, as in this case, a series of auditions by pretenders to the throne 61 00:05:23,185 --> 00:05:26,701 while the lost leader withers before our very eyes. 62 00:05:28,190 --> 00:05:30,785 Michael Samuels, Environment. 63 00:05:31,067 --> 00:05:35,664 Intelligent, sensitive, caring - all in the same sentence, I bet you. 64 00:05:36,072 --> 00:05:38,541 Not a return to subsistence farming. 65 00:05:38,825 --> 00:05:43,297 What it means is sensitive exploitation of natural resources, 66 00:05:43,704 --> 00:05:48,301 intelligent self-interest to motivate long-term gains 67 00:05:48,709 --> 00:05:52,066 in a caring, capitalist concept. 68 00:05:53,464 --> 00:05:55,262 Told you. 69 00:06:01,388 --> 00:06:03,857 Peter McKenzie, Health. 70 00:06:04,141 --> 00:06:07,020 Ease the pressure on the state system, 71 00:06:07,352 --> 00:06:10,629 enabling our professionals to do a better job 72 00:06:10,981 --> 00:06:15,260 for those unable to fend for themselves financially. 73 00:06:15,652 --> 00:06:19,931 So that now we can say with real confidence, 74 00:06:20,281 --> 00:06:22,841 "Carry on, nurse." 75 00:06:24,160 --> 00:06:26,470 God, what an idiot that man is. 76 00:06:30,375 --> 00:06:32,571 Harold Earle, Education. 77 00:06:32,835 --> 00:06:37,955 We've made schools accountable. We've grasped the nettle and taken it on board. 78 00:06:38,382 --> 00:06:41,341 It's not always been comfortable. 79 00:06:41,677 --> 00:06:44,431 One thing I do know. Time will prove it. 80 00:06:45,347 --> 00:06:49,341 It's the right way. It's the right...way. 81 00:06:58,902 --> 00:07:01,895 And Patrick Woolton, Foreign Secretary. 82 00:07:02,197 --> 00:07:04,587 No one's more admiring than I am 83 00:07:04,866 --> 00:07:08,655 about the strides taken by our friends in Eastern Europe. 84 00:07:08,995 --> 00:07:12,272 But hold on. I mean, sorry, tovarich. 85 00:07:12,582 --> 00:07:17,737 If I'm going into the conference chamber to have big hugs with Russian bears, 86 00:07:18,129 --> 00:07:22,248 I'd rather not leave my six-guns at the door. 87 00:07:34,687 --> 00:07:38,283 Dear old Patrick. Likes to sound like a buccaneer. 88 00:07:38,607 --> 00:07:42,886 But he's behind Henry Collingridge all the way. He'll tell you so himself. 89 00:07:43,236 --> 00:07:47,230 Roger, have you got a moment? I won't deprive you for too long. 90 00:07:51,995 --> 00:07:56,387 Glad to be rescued. Like being in a loose maul with the French pack. 91 00:07:56,750 --> 00:08:00,221 Don't get me wrong, Francis. Loving every minute. 92 00:08:00,545 --> 00:08:02,537 How's it coming across? 93 00:08:02,797 --> 00:08:05,790 You can see. The press aren't buying it. 94 00:08:06,092 --> 00:08:10,689 They saw Patrick Woolton having a go. "Leadership crisis" is the story they want. 95 00:08:11,055 --> 00:08:13,729 We do our best with what they give us. 96 00:08:14,058 --> 00:08:17,130 Your assistant's doing sterling work. 97 00:08:17,478 --> 00:08:20,630 - That girl is like gold, Francis. - I'm sure. 98 00:08:20,981 --> 00:08:25,772 She's your mistress as well, I take it. Is that a privilege exclusive to yourself? 99 00:08:26,612 --> 00:08:30,401 - What? - Do you enjoy her body exclusively? 100 00:08:30,782 --> 00:08:33,377 Or is she available to others as well? 101 00:08:33,660 --> 00:08:37,654 Now, hold on, Francis. I don't think that's really the kind... 102 00:08:38,039 --> 00:08:43,034 Don't be coy with me. I could have you in the gutter. Answer my question. 103 00:08:43,420 --> 00:08:46,333 Well, me and Penny go back a long way. 104 00:08:47,340 --> 00:08:50,936 In some ways, we're more like brother and sister. 105 00:08:51,260 --> 00:08:55,732 We allow each other a little time off now and then, if you follow me. 106 00:08:57,475 --> 00:09:02,106 Now listen, Francis, it's not simple. She's not a... You can't just... 107 00:09:03,314 --> 00:09:07,706 I'm sure she'd be flattered to think... If you ask her really nicely... 108 00:09:08,068 --> 00:09:11,266 Shut up. Did you think I wanted her? 109 00:09:12,030 --> 00:09:16,627 - Oops. Sorry, my mistake. - Didn't you lend her to Patrick Woolton? 110 00:09:18,620 --> 00:09:23,411 That was research. He wanted a bright girl for a bit of research in a hurry. 111 00:09:23,792 --> 00:09:26,785 Where would the House be without bright girls 112 00:09:27,128 --> 00:09:32,044 I think he may want to borrow her again. More urgent research needs. 113 00:09:32,467 --> 00:09:35,266 Would she be available, do you think? 114 00:09:36,471 --> 00:09:38,667 It's not impossible. 115 00:09:39,682 --> 00:09:43,915 - I'll broach it gently. Leave it to me. - I have another task for you. 116 00:09:44,937 --> 00:09:47,247 Just a small delivery job. 117 00:09:57,741 --> 00:09:59,539 - Morning, sir. - Morning. 118 00:10:27,478 --> 00:10:30,073 Come on, come on, Sleeping Beauty. 119 00:10:32,567 --> 00:10:34,923 Bloody hell, Rog. What do you want? 120 00:10:36,070 --> 00:10:40,110 To drown in your eyes and hide in your arms, darling. 121 00:11:21,989 --> 00:11:26,142 I've only just set eyes on the bloody thing. 122 00:11:26,535 --> 00:11:28,333 It's very bad. 123 00:11:28,579 --> 00:11:31,970 The poll was taken before the conference. 124 00:11:32,291 --> 00:11:35,284 I'm sure you'll turn it round this week. 125 00:11:35,586 --> 00:11:38,055 We've seen it all before, after all. 126 00:11:38,338 --> 00:11:43,049 You're a good fellow, Francis. But 30% is a hell of a lead to pull back. 127 00:11:43,427 --> 00:11:45,817 Right, speak to you soon. 128 00:11:52,477 --> 00:11:57,188 Do you know, Elizabeth, I believe our leader is starting to worry. 129 00:11:57,607 --> 00:12:01,601 It's a major story. Greville will want to know about it. 130 00:12:01,944 --> 00:12:03,936 All right, who's dead? 131 00:12:04,238 --> 00:12:07,037 Henry Collingridge. Well, not literally. 132 00:12:07,325 --> 00:12:11,638 Grev, I've got hold of the secret poll. The Tories' own one. 133 00:12:12,038 --> 00:12:17,875 Sensational. 30% behind. Collingridge is about as popular as Captain Hook. 134 00:12:18,335 --> 00:12:22,727 And who decided to make you a present of this secret Tory poll? 135 00:12:23,090 --> 00:12:28,085 I don't know. It was left outside my door. All right, I know it sounds weird. 136 00:12:28,470 --> 00:12:32,987 - But it's genuine. I'm convinced. - You've been set up, you silly cow. 137 00:12:34,059 --> 00:12:38,850 Don't let me hear any more about this unless you have proof it's kosher. 138 00:12:39,272 --> 00:12:44,586 Don't ever wake me again unless it's adultery in the royal family with photographs! 139 00:12:49,032 --> 00:12:50,625 Pig! 140 00:12:53,995 --> 00:12:55,714 Right... 141 00:13:13,513 --> 00:13:15,311 K.J.S. 142 00:13:16,558 --> 00:13:19,710 Kevin Spence, Central Office, Research. 143 00:13:31,656 --> 00:13:33,454 Damn! 144 00:13:36,744 --> 00:13:39,213 Lovely. Nothing can beat you. 145 00:13:40,873 --> 00:13:44,662 - I wish you really meant that. - I do, I do, truly. 146 00:13:45,002 --> 00:13:48,473 - Lovely girl. - No. No, Rog... 147 00:13:48,798 --> 00:13:50,790 Don't... Oh! 148 00:13:52,509 --> 00:13:54,307 Oh, Rog! 149 00:13:57,806 --> 00:14:00,082 Got a little surprise. 150 00:14:01,101 --> 00:14:03,491 What? What are you up to? 151 00:14:05,355 --> 00:14:10,749 Oh, Roger. Taking cocaine at eight a.m. at the Conservative Party Conference? 152 00:14:11,152 --> 00:14:13,747 Don't you think I have fantastic style? 153 00:14:14,030 --> 00:14:17,023 - I think you're barmy. - Nonsense. 154 00:14:17,992 --> 00:14:20,302 This is brilliant stuff. 155 00:14:20,578 --> 00:14:23,173 Know where I got it? 156 00:14:23,456 --> 00:14:25,846 Grosvenor Square. 157 00:14:27,335 --> 00:14:31,329 This stuff is usually only available to the CIA. Yum-yum! 158 00:14:32,757 --> 00:14:35,556 What are you trying to do? Kill yourself? 159 00:14:35,843 --> 00:14:38,233 Rubbish. Not a bit of it. 160 00:14:39,430 --> 00:14:42,229 Just been a tense week, that's all. 161 00:14:42,516 --> 00:14:45,111 I could kick this stuff any time I liked. 162 00:14:46,478 --> 00:14:49,391 I tell you what. Get this week over. 163 00:14:50,691 --> 00:14:53,286 We'll go to a health farm for ten days. 164 00:14:54,194 --> 00:14:56,186 No drugs. 165 00:14:58,657 --> 00:15:00,649 No drink. 166 00:15:02,535 --> 00:15:05,130 Shag ourselves silly. How about that? 167 00:15:05,413 --> 00:15:09,009 That would be lovely. If only you really meant it. 168 00:15:09,334 --> 00:15:11,530 I do. You'll see. 169 00:15:12,879 --> 00:15:15,872 - Listen, Pen. - Now what? 170 00:15:16,883 --> 00:15:19,273 It's a bit delicate, this. 171 00:15:20,886 --> 00:15:24,402 Remember you had that thing with Pat Woolton? 172 00:15:24,723 --> 00:15:28,717 I'd hardly forget that, would I? What a character 173 00:15:29,812 --> 00:15:34,409 - You liked him, though, didn't you? - What a maniac. He was all right. 174 00:15:34,775 --> 00:15:39,372 - Really good fun. - He's still carrying a torch for you. 175 00:15:39,738 --> 00:15:42,333 Torch? Is that what he calls it now? 176 00:15:43,950 --> 00:15:49,150 He was wondering if you'd have dinner with him. He's shy about asking you. 177 00:15:49,539 --> 00:15:51,531 Shy? Him? 178 00:15:51,791 --> 00:15:55,387 He put his hand in my knickers in Langan's. 179 00:15:55,712 --> 00:15:57,704 Yeah, well... 180 00:15:57,964 --> 00:16:00,354 I said I'd pass it on. 181 00:16:06,555 --> 00:16:08,945 Pimping now, is it? 182 00:16:15,397 --> 00:16:17,787 Jesus Christ, Roger! 183 00:16:18,067 --> 00:16:20,536 Don't you care about me at all? 184 00:16:20,819 --> 00:16:26,213 Ah, Pen. Of course I do. I didn't think you'd be upset. I thought you liked him. 185 00:16:26,658 --> 00:16:31,972 I went with him because I wanted to, not because you promised him a favour! 186 00:16:32,372 --> 00:16:37,492 Listen, Pen, it's not like that at all. I wish I didn't have to ask you. 187 00:16:39,587 --> 00:16:42,944 I wish I could be everything to you, but I can't. 188 00:16:43,925 --> 00:16:49,523 You know I'd never ask you to do a thing like this unless my arse was on the line. 189 00:16:49,931 --> 00:16:51,729 And it is. 190 00:16:51,974 --> 00:16:53,772 It truly is. 191 00:16:54,977 --> 00:16:58,971 I don't know what I'm going to do, and that's the truth. 192 00:17:00,191 --> 00:17:05,186 - You do believe me, don't you? - Yes, I do believe you. It's that stuff! 193 00:17:06,613 --> 00:17:08,332 Partly. 194 00:17:12,995 --> 00:17:17,990 I mean, it's...it's not as though you hate the man, Pen. You liked him. 195 00:17:19,167 --> 00:17:23,161 You know if it was me, I'd do anything for you. Don't you? 196 00:17:23,505 --> 00:17:27,294 - I love you, Pen. You know that. - Just shut up, Rog. 197 00:17:27,634 --> 00:17:29,227 Why? 198 00:17:31,054 --> 00:17:33,649 What's the matter? What have I said? 199 00:17:37,643 --> 00:17:39,953 Kevin Spence? 200 00:17:40,229 --> 00:17:41,822 Oh. 201 00:17:44,525 --> 00:17:48,519 - Oh, Lord... - Have mine. I hate the stuff. 202 00:17:48,863 --> 00:17:51,332 Mattie Storin, the "Chronicle". 203 00:17:51,615 --> 00:17:55,928 - Oh, y-yes, I... - Don't pretend you recognise my name. 204 00:17:56,286 --> 00:18:01,486 - Well, I do, actually. - I wanted to check some facts with you. 205 00:18:01,875 --> 00:18:05,073 Me? I'm in research, not the press office. 206 00:18:05,378 --> 00:18:08,689 - I did say "facts", Kevin. - Ah, yes. 207 00:18:10,342 --> 00:18:15,133 Is this...a genuine report from your department? 208 00:18:15,513 --> 00:18:17,709 Not a fake? 209 00:18:20,310 --> 00:18:24,304 - Where did you get this? - K.J.S. That's you, isn't it? 210 00:18:24,647 --> 00:18:28,243 Look, please. I can't possibly discuss this. 211 00:18:28,567 --> 00:18:33,562 If someone knew I'd leaked those figures, confirmed they were genuine... 212 00:18:33,948 --> 00:18:37,988 - Please don't drag me into this. - I won't. It's all right, Kevin. 213 00:18:38,994 --> 00:18:41,509 I don't give away my sources. 214 00:18:42,372 --> 00:18:45,171 It is a genuine report, isn't it? 215 00:18:47,461 --> 00:18:49,976 What's the circulation? 216 00:18:50,255 --> 00:18:52,645 Very limited, I take it. 217 00:18:52,924 --> 00:18:57,123 Just cabinet ministers and five senior people at Smith Square. 218 00:18:57,470 --> 00:19:01,987 The Deputy Chairman and four senior directors. Don't ask me anything else. 219 00:19:02,350 --> 00:19:04,945 No, I won't. You've been very helpful. 220 00:19:06,354 --> 00:19:08,550 Stay in touch. 221 00:19:08,815 --> 00:19:11,011 I'd rather not... 222 00:19:51,356 --> 00:19:55,350 - Francis! - Patrick. Good of you to spare the time. 223 00:19:56,527 --> 00:20:01,522 The Chief Whip says he wants an urgent word in private, you make time. 224 00:20:01,908 --> 00:20:05,902 I've been wondering what I've done wrong. I can't think of anything. 225 00:20:06,245 --> 00:20:08,840 Depressing, that - looked at one way. 226 00:20:09,123 --> 00:20:14,517 Still, I suppose it's better than finding your picture in the "News of the World". 227 00:20:14,920 --> 00:20:19,915 I need to take your mind, Patrick. This is a meeting that never took place. 228 00:20:20,300 --> 00:20:25,091 All right. If this is what I think it is, it's come sooner than I thought. 229 00:20:25,472 --> 00:20:30,467 We're in trouble, Patrick. There's a view around that this is not a passing phase. 230 00:20:30,852 --> 00:20:34,766 This view says that the problem is the Prime Minister. 231 00:20:35,106 --> 00:20:40,306 His unpopularity is dragging the party down. He refuses to see the danger. 232 00:20:40,695 --> 00:20:45,008 He's insisted on holding the Dorset by-election in conference week. 233 00:20:45,366 --> 00:20:47,961 It looks like a bad miscalculation. 234 00:20:48,244 --> 00:20:53,797 You understand, this... is not necessarily my personalview. 235 00:20:54,208 --> 00:20:58,202 - It's a view I've been asked to put to you. - Who by? 236 00:20:58,546 --> 00:21:01,744 - One or two senior colleagues. - Just one or two? 237 00:21:02,049 --> 00:21:06,362 Three, in absolute confidence. Three very senior colleagues. 238 00:21:06,720 --> 00:21:09,519 All right. Go on. 239 00:21:09,806 --> 00:21:14,597 Do you think Henry still has what it takes to be Prime Minister? 240 00:21:14,978 --> 00:21:21,771 If he were...persuaded to retire, would you be interested in taking his place? 241 00:21:22,235 --> 00:21:25,706 Bloody hell, Francis. You don't mess about. 242 00:21:26,030 --> 00:21:30,627 You know I prefer plain speaking and plain dealing, as you do. 243 00:21:30,993 --> 00:21:33,792 All right. Let's analyse the situation. 244 00:21:34,080 --> 00:21:39,280 First of all, have we really got a problem? Yes, the polls are bloody terrifying. 245 00:21:40,586 --> 00:21:45,900 Second, do we have to do something? Can we swing the country round? 246 00:21:46,342 --> 00:21:48,732 That's up to the Prime Minister. 247 00:21:49,011 --> 00:21:53,608 My view is, he does not have what it takes. The voters don't think he has. 248 00:21:53,974 --> 00:21:56,284 Another election, we'll get stuffed. 249 00:21:56,602 --> 00:22:00,596 That's probably the majority view on the back benches. 250 00:22:00,939 --> 00:22:04,933 But if we get rid of him so early, we'll look like a banana republic. 251 00:22:05,277 --> 00:22:07,837 I don't want to be seen as an Idi Amin. 252 00:22:08,154 --> 00:22:13,183 Well, yes. Quite. But you are still interested in the leadership? 253 00:22:13,618 --> 00:22:18,409 In confidence, of course I bloody am. I stood against Henry when Margaret left. 254 00:22:18,790 --> 00:22:24,070 I still think I was the best candidate. If I stood again, I'd look for your support. 255 00:22:25,296 --> 00:22:27,606 But it's too early. 256 00:22:27,882 --> 00:22:32,877 We need time to get the public used to the idea of a change of leadership. 257 00:22:33,262 --> 00:22:38,257 Move too soon, we'll look like assassins. Too late, the party will be in pieces. 258 00:22:39,601 --> 00:22:44,198 I'll say one thing, Francis. I'm damn glad it's you that's handling this. 259 00:22:44,564 --> 00:22:47,238 There's not many men I'd trust with this. 260 00:22:47,526 --> 00:22:50,121 Thank you, Patrick. I appreciate that. 261 00:22:51,071 --> 00:22:53,540 I appreciate your frankness as well. 262 00:22:54,741 --> 00:22:58,257 I'll continue to take soundings and keep you informed. 263 00:22:58,578 --> 00:23:02,572 Good. As long as we keep that slimy little sod Samuels out. 264 00:23:02,916 --> 00:23:06,910 Well, yes, quite. Absolutely. Good talking to you, Patrick. 265 00:23:08,004 --> 00:23:12,476 - You won't miss the party later? - Wild horses, Francis. Wild horses. 266 00:23:12,842 --> 00:23:16,233 Don't suppose you've got any wild women? 267 00:23:16,554 --> 00:23:19,228 You'd be surprised. 268 00:23:23,727 --> 00:23:26,322 The man's a lout, of course. A lout. 269 00:23:26,605 --> 00:23:30,599 A lecher. An anti-Semite. A racist. And a bully. 270 00:23:30,943 --> 00:23:33,936 But he is more intelligent than he seems. 271 00:23:34,237 --> 00:23:39,437 He is, we mustn't forget, Her Majesty's Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs. 272 00:23:40,911 --> 00:23:45,508 We mustn't make the mistake of underestimating Patrick Woolton. 273 00:23:49,669 --> 00:23:52,867 Call my secretary if you want to follow this up. 274 00:23:53,172 --> 00:23:55,767 Thank you. I will. Bye for now, then. 275 00:23:58,553 --> 00:24:01,751 - Miss Storin. Mattie. - Oh, hello. 276 00:24:02,056 --> 00:24:05,447 - You're neglecting me. - I'm not pestering you. 277 00:24:05,768 --> 00:24:09,762 I feel slighted. Was Michael Samuels illuminating? 278 00:24:10,105 --> 00:24:12,904 Oddly, not nearly as illuminating as you. 279 00:24:13,192 --> 00:24:16,344 - I'm astounded. - I don't think you are. 280 00:24:17,321 --> 00:24:20,120 How are things? A good conference? 281 00:24:20,449 --> 00:24:24,921 - Apart from your neglect of me, yes. - That's not my information. 282 00:24:25,871 --> 00:24:29,342 - My information is you're in trouble. - Really? 283 00:24:29,666 --> 00:24:33,182 - Not you personally. - That's a relief. 284 00:24:33,503 --> 00:24:37,895 - I was wondering if we could chat. - Were you, Mattie? 285 00:24:40,718 --> 00:24:45,793 I get the impression that the conference is in code. It's all about something else. 286 00:24:46,224 --> 00:24:50,616 I haven't had a real conversation with a real person here. 287 00:24:50,978 --> 00:24:55,689 You think I'll decode the conference for you? A tall order, Mattie. 288 00:24:56,066 --> 00:25:01,858 I'd settle just for a chat. At least you're a real person. You ARE real, aren't you? 289 00:25:02,281 --> 00:25:04,876 Oh, yes. I'm a real person. 290 00:25:06,827 --> 00:25:08,147 So... 291 00:25:08,370 --> 00:25:13,161 I'd like very much to spend some time with you, Mattie, as I think you know. 292 00:25:14,167 --> 00:25:16,966 But this evening I'm otherwise engaged. 293 00:25:17,253 --> 00:25:21,645 A little drinks thing. Some of my guests are shy of journalists. 294 00:25:22,008 --> 00:25:24,603 They don't like to be seen relaxing. 295 00:25:24,886 --> 00:25:29,677 - Really? Who would that be? - Mattie, you can't expect me to tell you. 296 00:25:30,057 --> 00:25:35,052 - Who's coming? Tell me one guest. - Your proprietor, for one, Mattie. 297 00:25:35,438 --> 00:25:37,998 Benjamin Landless? Is he in Brighton? 298 00:25:38,315 --> 00:25:41,706 We get all the riffraff. You'd be surprised. 299 00:25:42,069 --> 00:25:44,664 Telephone call for Mattie Storin. 300 00:25:46,031 --> 00:25:48,830 Don't you think you'd better get that? 301 00:25:49,118 --> 00:25:51,553 Oh, right. Well... 302 00:25:53,163 --> 00:25:57,157 - See you later in the week, perhaps. - I hope so, Mattie. 303 00:26:08,178 --> 00:26:10,488 Hello. Mattie Storin here. 304 00:26:11,306 --> 00:26:13,901 John, sorry. You got the story all right? 305 00:26:14,225 --> 00:26:17,536 - Yes, we got it. - Brilliant story, or what? 306 00:26:17,854 --> 00:26:20,847 - Yes, a brilliant story. - And? 307 00:26:21,774 --> 00:26:26,644 - And we're not running it. - What?! Let me speak to Preston. 308 00:26:27,071 --> 00:26:32,066 He's in a meeting, He won't run the story because he thinks you've been set up. 309 00:26:32,493 --> 00:26:34,962 I've checked that survey. It's genuine. 310 00:26:35,245 --> 00:26:37,714 Can we speak to your source? 311 00:26:37,998 --> 00:26:40,797 Of course not. Let me speak to Preston. 312 00:26:41,126 --> 00:26:44,437 He's in a meeting. It wouldn't do any good. 313 00:26:44,755 --> 00:26:48,226 We've backed the government. We stick with them. 314 00:26:48,592 --> 00:26:52,632 - It's not just you that's been let off. - Greville's been fixed, hasn't he? 315 00:26:53,513 --> 00:26:58,508 He's there with you, isn't he? Ask him who got at him. Ask him. 316 00:26:58,935 --> 00:27:02,212 It was Benjamin Landless, wasn't it? 317 00:27:02,522 --> 00:27:04,832 Hold on. A call on the other line. 318 00:27:05,149 --> 00:27:09,143 Hold on for what? There's nothing to talk about! 319 00:27:16,035 --> 00:27:20,632 - Oh, God! That's all I need. - I'm so sorry. Please allow me to... 320 00:27:20,998 --> 00:27:23,593 Perhaps not. Only make it worse. Um... 321 00:27:23,876 --> 00:27:28,667 - Oh, Lord. Oh, Lord. In trouble again. - It's all right. Most of it missed. 322 00:27:29,047 --> 00:27:34,042 Are you sure? It was vodka. Very pure. My mother-in-law cleans silver with it. 323 00:27:35,220 --> 00:27:38,019 May I...buy you a drink, Miss...? 324 00:27:38,306 --> 00:27:42,300 Mattie Storin. No, let my editor buy you one, Mr Collingridge. 325 00:27:42,644 --> 00:27:45,239 Two large vodkas and tonics. Ice, lemon. 326 00:27:45,522 --> 00:27:48,435 You know who I am? Amazing. Amazing. 327 00:27:48,733 --> 00:27:53,524 - I am a journalist, Mr Collingridge. - Call me Charlie. Everyone else does. 328 00:27:53,905 --> 00:27:56,420 Why are you in this den of thieves? 329 00:27:56,699 --> 00:27:59,692 Not all thieves. A few good blokes about. 330 00:27:59,994 --> 00:28:03,385 - Like your brother? - Exactly. Salt of the earth. 331 00:28:03,706 --> 00:28:06,619 That's nice. I'd heard he disowned you. 332 00:28:06,917 --> 00:28:11,912 No, no. He lets people think that. Best brother in the world, Hal. Looks after me. 333 00:28:12,339 --> 00:28:15,332 Likes to do good by stealth. 334 00:28:16,176 --> 00:28:18,486 Enough said. End of story. 335 00:28:18,762 --> 00:28:21,755 - Cheers. Good health. - Cheers. 336 00:28:24,476 --> 00:28:28,436 Lord, you are a pretty girl. Oh, no offence. 337 00:28:28,813 --> 00:28:31,692 I've got a daughter your age. Lovely girl. 338 00:28:31,983 --> 00:28:34,782 Lovely face. Never, never see her. 339 00:28:36,070 --> 00:28:39,188 Own fault. Water under the thingy. 340 00:28:41,200 --> 00:28:43,590 Do miss her, though. 341 00:28:43,869 --> 00:28:49,263 No, no! Absolutely not! Get the hell out. Do I make myself clear? 342 00:28:49,667 --> 00:28:53,661 - Lord, I can't stand that man. - Don't come back till tomorrow. 343 00:28:54,004 --> 00:28:56,519 Large whisky, and be quick about it. 344 00:28:56,799 --> 00:29:01,510 I gotta go to this goddamn reception. I need something to line my gut with. 345 00:29:01,929 --> 00:29:04,649 - Charlie! - Evening, Ben. 346 00:29:04,973 --> 00:29:09,047 One for him, too, I suppose. And you, young lady? 347 00:29:09,436 --> 00:29:13,589 What are you staring at? Is my zipper undone, or what? 348 00:29:15,275 --> 00:29:20,589 - Am I supposed to know you? - We haven't met. I am your employee. 349 00:29:20,989 --> 00:29:24,983 Half the hacks in Brighton are getting wrecked at my expense. 350 00:29:25,326 --> 00:29:29,320 In fact, you've been influential in getting my story spiked. 351 00:29:29,664 --> 00:29:34,420 Is that so? What was it? "Knit your man a willy-warmer for Christmas"? 352 00:29:34,835 --> 00:29:38,431 No, it was about the Tories going 30 points behind. 353 00:29:38,797 --> 00:29:40,390 Ah. 354 00:29:41,383 --> 00:29:44,182 You're...Minnie what's-her-name. 355 00:29:44,470 --> 00:29:47,065 - Mattie Storin. - Yes. 356 00:29:48,307 --> 00:29:50,617 Damn good story. 357 00:29:50,892 --> 00:29:56,570 Wrong damn paper. What do you think we are? The "New Statesman"? Cheers. 358 00:29:58,483 --> 00:30:02,272 Thanks. Keep the change. Have one yourself. 359 00:30:03,988 --> 00:30:07,777 It's chaps like that that drive chaps to drink. 360 00:30:09,369 --> 00:30:12,043 Could you cope with another one? 361 00:30:12,372 --> 00:30:14,967 Yes. Why not? 362 00:30:16,792 --> 00:30:19,990 - Evening. Jolly good do. - Thank you. 363 00:30:20,296 --> 00:30:21,969 Not here yet. 364 00:30:22,256 --> 00:30:26,853 I told the bugger, "Any more of that and you're for Northern Ireland." 365 00:30:27,219 --> 00:30:32,419 - I dare say that called his bluff. - Wasn't seen on his feet again till1987. 366 00:30:32,808 --> 00:30:35,198 He's not here yet. 367 00:30:35,477 --> 00:30:39,869 - McKenzie's wife's a genius with a wok. - Is that so? 368 00:30:40,232 --> 00:30:44,829 I used to think the wok solved everything, but now I know otherwise. 369 00:30:45,195 --> 00:30:49,951 You really must allow me to give you my recipe for brill. Brill is a fish. 370 00:30:50,367 --> 00:30:53,360 - Yes... - Mr O'Neill, how are you? 371 00:30:53,661 --> 00:30:56,335 - Never better. - Good. 372 00:30:59,667 --> 00:31:04,059 We put the boys down for Wellington. What do you think? 373 00:31:04,422 --> 00:31:07,221 I don't know. A bit dear. Is it worth it? 374 00:31:07,508 --> 00:31:10,899 Miss Guy! Elizabeth Urquhart. 375 00:31:11,846 --> 00:31:14,839 Really? You write the PM's speeches? 376 00:31:15,140 --> 00:31:20,659 If they chucked me out, it'd be like a lobotomy for Hal. That's confidential. 377 00:31:31,072 --> 00:31:33,064 Excuse me. Hay fever. 378 00:31:33,325 --> 00:31:36,921 - Ben! Good to see you. - Never mind that. 379 00:31:37,245 --> 00:31:42,240 What are you boys playing at? No, I don't want any of these stupid things. 380 00:31:42,625 --> 00:31:44,617 Go away. 381 00:31:44,877 --> 00:31:49,668 I put the whole damn chain of papers behind your lot, and you cock it up. 382 00:31:50,049 --> 00:31:52,769 Ben, we can't talk here. Walls have ears. 383 00:31:53,052 --> 00:31:58,047 To hell with that. I didn't come 200 miles for canapés. Where's the bathroom? 384 00:31:58,432 --> 00:32:01,630 - It's over there. - Great. Let's go. 385 00:32:05,981 --> 00:32:08,701 I've seen that latest poll of yours. 386 00:32:10,402 --> 00:32:13,793 - Girl of mine got hold of it. - It's just a poll. 387 00:32:14,114 --> 00:32:16,993 Bullshit, my friend. It's disastrous. 388 00:32:18,869 --> 00:32:22,658 But don't worry. I told Greville Preston to pull it. 389 00:32:22,998 --> 00:32:25,194 Ah. Thank you, Ben. 390 00:32:25,458 --> 00:32:28,929 It'll leak, but not till after the by-election. 391 00:32:29,254 --> 00:32:31,974 The Prime Minister will be very grateful. 392 00:32:32,257 --> 00:32:35,933 That limp dick! Where does it leave me? 393 00:32:37,095 --> 00:32:39,815 I wanna buy Transglobal Newspapers. 394 00:32:40,097 --> 00:32:43,090 I wanna buy two ITV regions. 395 00:32:43,392 --> 00:32:45,861 Under Maggie, I knew the score. 396 00:32:46,145 --> 00:32:50,537 Everyone facing the same way, defending freedom's frontiers. 397 00:32:50,900 --> 00:32:55,691 Everything was up for grabs. No lame ducks and no sore losers, right? 398 00:32:56,113 --> 00:33:00,710 Now my lawyers are talking Monopolies and Mergers Commission. 399 00:33:01,076 --> 00:33:05,753 This government won't back me up because they haven't got the guts. 400 00:33:06,873 --> 00:33:09,069 Hell, Francis. 401 00:33:09,334 --> 00:33:13,533 What sort of country is it when a man can't spend his money how he likes? 402 00:33:13,880 --> 00:33:16,679 Very true, and very well put, Ben. 403 00:33:17,008 --> 00:33:21,002 Screw "well put". What are we gonna do about it? 404 00:33:24,557 --> 00:33:26,947 Dump Collingridge. 405 00:33:27,935 --> 00:33:30,131 Holy shit! 406 00:33:31,397 --> 00:33:33,787 You really mean that, don't you? 407 00:33:34,066 --> 00:33:38,982 This crisis of confidence isn't about policy. It's about leadership. 408 00:33:39,363 --> 00:33:41,958 I'm very fond of Henry Collingridge. 409 00:33:42,241 --> 00:33:44,836 I respect him, in many ways. 410 00:33:45,118 --> 00:33:50,512 But we need a strong, right-wing leader with the courage to defend freedom. 411 00:33:50,957 --> 00:33:55,748 - And increase it. - Exactly. That's the way Europe's going. 412 00:33:56,129 --> 00:33:59,122 This used to be a country fit for heroes. 413 00:33:59,424 --> 00:34:03,020 Explorers, soldiers, merchant adventurers. 414 00:34:03,344 --> 00:34:07,816 We want a leader who's prepared to let his dogs off the leash. 415 00:34:08,224 --> 00:34:11,740 - Give us a little room to run, huh? - Quite. 416 00:34:12,103 --> 00:34:17,132 A leader who's prepared to put himself about a bit, give 'em some stick. 417 00:34:17,525 --> 00:34:20,040 I like the things you say, Francis. 418 00:34:21,028 --> 00:34:24,260 So...who did you have in mind? 419 00:34:24,615 --> 00:34:28,086 Patrick Woolton would give us what we want. 420 00:34:28,410 --> 00:34:33,007 - You don't want it for yourself? - What, me? Oh, no, no, no. 421 00:34:33,373 --> 00:34:37,413 I'm just the Chief Whip, Ben. I just keep the troops in order. 422 00:34:37,794 --> 00:34:41,993 - Chief Whips have made it to the top. - Well... 423 00:34:42,340 --> 00:34:48,530 If it ever did come to that, I'd make sure they didn't tie you up in red tape, Ben. 424 00:34:48,972 --> 00:34:52,648 Know you would, Francis. Know you would. 425 00:34:53,017 --> 00:34:57,011 OK, so...let's do it to Collingridge. 426 00:34:57,355 --> 00:34:59,950 Run that poll story for a start, huh? 427 00:35:00,233 --> 00:35:04,432 First edition closes in 40 minutes. Better make a phone call. 428 00:35:04,779 --> 00:35:07,374 Nice party, Francis. 429 00:35:12,661 --> 00:35:14,971 Atchoo! 430 00:35:19,543 --> 00:35:22,820 Enough about me. How about you? 431 00:35:24,172 --> 00:35:27,802 - Would you be into quickies, Amanda? - Into what? 432 00:35:42,023 --> 00:35:45,221 So... The party's over. 433 00:35:46,402 --> 00:35:50,316 It's a quiet night. Our fortunes prosper well. 434 00:35:52,199 --> 00:35:57,399 The Foreign Secretary finds succour from the harsh affairs of state 435 00:35:57,788 --> 00:36:01,907 in the soft fragrance of a daughter of the game. 436 00:36:02,960 --> 00:36:05,520 One for the archives, 437 00:36:05,796 --> 00:36:08,311 if he did but know it. 438 00:36:09,299 --> 00:36:14,090 And all the while, Landless's armies are labouring for me through the darkness 439 00:36:14,513 --> 00:36:16,505 towards dawn, 440 00:36:16,765 --> 00:36:18,961 telling the story. 441 00:36:19,267 --> 00:36:21,657 A leader out of touch. 442 00:36:21,936 --> 00:36:25,725 A man of straw clutching at straws, 443 00:36:26,065 --> 00:36:30,662 his future closing in front of him like a fist. 444 00:36:32,530 --> 00:36:36,922 Who would be a leader in this wicked world? 445 00:36:38,244 --> 00:36:42,238 Sorry, Prime Minister. We thought you'd better see it. 446 00:36:42,581 --> 00:36:47,372 Graham, not at breakfast. Hal was up till four working on his speech. 447 00:36:47,753 --> 00:36:52,703 So were we, Mrs Collingridge. I'm awfully sorry, but it is very serious. 448 00:36:53,133 --> 00:36:56,012 If you read the paragraph I've marked. 449 00:36:56,345 --> 00:36:59,861 It's not just a leak. It's a personal attack. 450 00:37:01,099 --> 00:37:05,616 "A leading minister commented, 'Our position is being undermined 451 00:37:05,979 --> 00:37:08,574 "'by the leader's lack of appeal.' 452 00:37:08,857 --> 00:37:11,326 "Another senior figure party suggested 453 00:37:11,609 --> 00:37:16,604 "that Henry Collingridge would be invited to stand down for the good of the party." 454 00:37:16,990 --> 00:37:20,028 Who's doing this? Who is it? 455 00:37:20,910 --> 00:37:23,505 Are they trying to destroy us all? 456 00:37:25,915 --> 00:37:29,909 I want to know who this is, Graham. I have to know. 457 00:37:30,252 --> 00:37:32,767 Shall I give Lord Billsborough a call? 458 00:37:33,047 --> 00:37:35,243 Yes. No! 459 00:37:36,717 --> 00:37:39,107 No, not Billsborough. 460 00:37:40,012 --> 00:37:44,006 Get Francis Urquhart over. In my suite in half an hour. 461 00:37:44,349 --> 00:37:46,739 Yes, Prime Minister. Erm... 462 00:37:47,019 --> 00:37:51,013 In view of this report, with the Dorset by-election today, 463 00:37:51,356 --> 00:37:54,474 you'll want to adjust your speech. 464 00:37:54,776 --> 00:37:56,096 No. 465 00:37:56,361 --> 00:38:01,152 - I really feel that we should... - It was a good speech at four a.m. 466 00:38:01,533 --> 00:38:04,002 It's still a good speech. 467 00:38:31,979 --> 00:38:34,574 - Urquhart. - Pat here. 468 00:38:34,856 --> 00:38:40,056 - Patrick, what can I do for you? - You left your case and took mine. 469 00:38:40,445 --> 00:38:45,042 - Or I hope you did. Could you check? - Hold on, Patrick. 470 00:38:57,587 --> 00:39:02,901 My dear chap. I'm frightfully sorry. You're quite right. Shall I bring it round? 471 00:39:03,300 --> 00:39:06,896 - No, I'm on my way. Two minutes. - Bye. 472 00:39:07,263 --> 00:39:09,858 John, first you pull my story. 473 00:39:10,140 --> 00:39:14,419 Then you print it without my name. What's going on? 474 00:39:14,812 --> 00:39:18,010 Do you promise not to bite my head off? 475 00:39:18,357 --> 00:39:22,397 All right. I'm sorry about last night, but I was so bloody angry. 476 00:39:22,736 --> 00:39:25,126 It's not your fault. What happened? 477 00:39:25,447 --> 00:39:28,838 Well, I don't know exactly. 478 00:39:29,159 --> 00:39:34,678 Grev was on the phone for half an hour. He came out very pleased with himself. 479 00:39:35,123 --> 00:39:38,116 High drama."Kill the front page." 480 00:39:38,459 --> 00:39:42,658 Grev says he checked your story and it stands up. 481 00:39:43,005 --> 00:39:45,998 - So, who wrote it? - He did. 482 00:39:46,342 --> 00:39:51,133 Ben Landless was here. Urquhart had a party. Landless was a guest. 483 00:39:51,514 --> 00:39:53,983 And Woolton, Samuels, Billsborough. 484 00:39:54,308 --> 00:39:58,507 - So it's true. - It's really happening, John. 485 00:39:58,854 --> 00:40:01,688 They're going to junk Collingridge. 486 00:40:03,817 --> 00:40:07,606 - So stupid of me, Patrick. - No harm done. 487 00:40:09,323 --> 00:40:12,919 - Good party, Francis. - Glad you enjoyed it. 488 00:40:13,243 --> 00:40:16,839 - Seen the papers? - Yes. Bad business. 489 00:40:17,163 --> 00:40:19,678 Bad for some. Not so bad for others. 490 00:40:19,958 --> 00:40:23,156 - Keep in touch, Patrick. - Right. 491 00:40:31,969 --> 00:40:34,165 Yes. Of course. 492 00:40:34,430 --> 00:40:38,060 Francis, the Prime Minister would like to see you. 493 00:40:47,818 --> 00:40:52,017 - Prime Minister. - Who is it? Who's betraying me? 494 00:41:02,290 --> 00:41:03,883 Who? 495 00:41:04,834 --> 00:41:07,224 It's Teddy Billsborough. 496 00:41:12,967 --> 00:41:15,277 Are you sure? 497 00:41:15,553 --> 00:41:18,068 No one else it could be. 498 00:41:19,348 --> 00:41:21,738 I'm terribly sorry. 499 00:41:23,436 --> 00:41:25,826 Thank you, Francis. 500 00:41:26,564 --> 00:41:28,954 You're a good man. 501 00:41:41,578 --> 00:41:45,777 The '80s had to be the decade of confrontation. 502 00:41:46,124 --> 00:41:50,641 The '90s will be seen, I think, as the decade of conciliation. 503 00:41:51,004 --> 00:41:53,803 The decade of cooperation. 504 00:41:54,090 --> 00:41:56,889 The decade of maturity. 505 00:41:57,969 --> 00:42:02,885 Stifling dissent is not going to help us find The Right Way. 506 00:42:04,183 --> 00:42:08,780 Surely events in Eastern Europe have taught us that much. 507 00:42:09,146 --> 00:42:12,503 The British, open, democratic process 508 00:42:12,858 --> 00:42:18,889 has been an inspiration to seekers after freedom in Poland, Russia, Hungary, 509 00:42:19,323 --> 00:42:21,792 and in Czechoslovakia. 510 00:42:22,076 --> 00:42:25,308 And I, for one, am proud of that. 511 00:42:31,084 --> 00:42:36,159 It is only through frank and open exchange of views 512 00:42:36,590 --> 00:42:39,389 that good government is possible. 513 00:42:39,676 --> 00:42:45,832 Frank and open exchange of views in an atmosphere of trust. 514 00:42:47,934 --> 00:42:50,529 Pale-faced and clearly agitated, 515 00:42:50,812 --> 00:42:54,408 in his keynote address to conference, comma, 516 00:42:54,732 --> 00:42:59,682 the Prime Minister gave what observers agree was a lacklustre performance. 517 00:43:09,079 --> 00:43:11,674 Good morning to you, Miss Storin. 518 00:43:12,666 --> 00:43:14,862 And to you. 519 00:43:15,836 --> 00:43:20,547 - Is it a good morning? - Yes. The result is a little disappointing. 520 00:43:20,966 --> 00:43:25,165 But it's hardly cheering news for Labour either, is it? 521 00:43:27,055 --> 00:43:29,729 By-elections allow folk to let off steam. 522 00:43:30,016 --> 00:43:34,010 - Funny things happen in Dorset. - You're not worried? 523 00:43:34,395 --> 00:43:39,948 Oh, we shall take it seriously. It may be we're not getting our message across. 524 00:43:40,401 --> 00:43:44,918 - Can I quote you on that? - Yes, I think you may, Miss Storin. 525 00:43:47,825 --> 00:43:50,420 I'm very glad I bumped into you, Mattie. 526 00:43:50,703 --> 00:43:53,298 Another piece of news is going to break. 527 00:43:53,581 --> 00:43:56,415 And I know you'll handle it responsibly. 528 00:43:59,586 --> 00:44:01,976 Lord Billsborough! 529 00:44:07,427 --> 00:44:09,623 No comment! 530 00:44:19,189 --> 00:44:23,263 "In what was described by a senior government spokesman 531 00:44:23,651 --> 00:44:29,443 "as a fit of pique and panic, the Prime Minister sacked Lord Billsborough, 532 00:44:29,866 --> 00:44:34,383 "the greatly loved and longest-serving member of his government." 533 00:44:34,787 --> 00:44:37,177 Pique and panic. 534 00:44:37,456 --> 00:44:40,051 Oh, yes, I'm sure it was. 535 00:44:40,334 --> 00:44:44,328 Your girl was supposed to be handling things responsibly. 536 00:44:44,672 --> 00:44:50,623 I'm sure she did, Elizabeth. Someone must have been getting at her editor. 537 00:44:51,094 --> 00:44:53,814 She's proving to be rather a treasure. 538 00:44:54,139 --> 00:44:56,449 You could say that. 539 00:44:56,725 --> 00:44:59,923 - And you trust her? - Yes. 540 00:45:00,228 --> 00:45:02,538 Up to a point. 541 00:45:03,857 --> 00:45:08,648 If you wanted to be quite certain of her loyalty, 542 00:45:09,028 --> 00:45:14,228 perhaps one night when you're in town and I'm here in the country... 543 00:45:15,284 --> 00:45:18,482 Well, I should quite understand, Francis. 544 00:45:18,788 --> 00:45:21,383 I'll leave that up to you entirely. 545 00:45:31,550 --> 00:45:35,339 - Thank you, Elizabeth. 546 00:45:38,140 --> 00:45:39,938 Urquhart. 547 00:45:40,934 --> 00:45:43,529 Yes, of course, Prime Minister. 548 00:45:44,521 --> 00:45:47,036 Yes, yes, of course. At once. 549 00:45:48,024 --> 00:45:51,574 - Well, well, well. - He isn't going to sack you? 550 00:45:51,903 --> 00:45:54,896 He'd better not bloody well try. 551 00:46:24,309 --> 00:46:29,668 The "Observer" rang the Press Office about a story they're going to run. 552 00:46:30,107 --> 00:46:33,896 They say Charlie's been buying shares in companies 553 00:46:34,236 --> 00:46:39,231 just before they benefit from government decisions, and making a killing on them. 554 00:46:39,616 --> 00:46:44,611 - You know Charlie. He hasn't the wit. - Charlie? Of course he hasn't. 555 00:46:44,996 --> 00:46:47,716 And... Well, he has his weaknesses, Hal. 556 00:46:48,041 --> 00:46:51,432 But he'd never do anything criminal. 557 00:46:51,752 --> 00:46:56,747 Thank you, Francis. God, it's such a relief to talk to someone with a bit of... 558 00:46:57,717 --> 00:47:00,915 You do believe I know nothing about it? 559 00:47:01,262 --> 00:47:05,336 Absolutely, Hal. Without the slightest reservation. 560 00:47:05,683 --> 00:47:09,677 You're a good man. They say they've got evidence. 561 00:47:10,062 --> 00:47:14,659 - Bank statements, receipts. - But nothing that connects it with you? 562 00:47:15,025 --> 00:47:18,018 No, but what else would they assume? 563 00:47:18,320 --> 00:47:21,313 If he has inside information, who from? 564 00:47:21,656 --> 00:47:27,414 - Francis, what am I going to do? - You're innocent. Tell them you'll sue. 565 00:47:27,871 --> 00:47:31,660 Set your solicitor onto it. Where's your brother? 566 00:47:32,000 --> 00:47:35,789 In his flat. I told him to take the phone off the hook. 567 00:47:36,129 --> 00:47:41,523 Have to do more. When the "Observer" hits the streets, he'll be under siege. 568 00:47:41,926 --> 00:47:46,717 Listen, there's a place we use in Kent for the dipsos and druggies 569 00:47:47,139 --> 00:47:51,133 on the back benches, sort of safe house cum asylum. 570 00:47:51,477 --> 00:47:53,867 - I'm sorry... - I know. 571 00:47:54,146 --> 00:47:59,540 I'll get Stamper to fix it. Can someone who knows him be there? Not you. 572 00:47:59,943 --> 00:48:02,742 - Anne will go. - Not her. 573 00:48:03,071 --> 00:48:05,950 Francis, we're all he has now. 574 00:48:06,283 --> 00:48:09,082 Right. She'd better go straight away. 575 00:48:09,369 --> 00:48:12,407 Don't worry, Hal. They're very kind. 576 00:48:12,747 --> 00:48:15,057 Absolutely discreet. 577 00:48:15,333 --> 00:48:17,848 Doctor Christian's a very sound man. 578 00:48:18,169 --> 00:48:21,958 It may be a blessing in disguise for Charlie. 579 00:48:22,298 --> 00:48:25,370 You're a tower of strength. Thank you. 580 00:48:25,676 --> 00:48:29,670 Don't embarrass me, Hal. I'm just doing my job. 581 00:48:34,852 --> 00:48:37,447 I don't know what's happening! 582 00:48:41,317 --> 00:48:43,627 No! Get away! 583 00:48:43,902 --> 00:48:47,293 - Go on! Go on! - Get away, you people! 584 00:48:48,782 --> 00:48:52,776 - A comment for the press, Charlie? - Get out! Get out! 585 00:48:55,914 --> 00:48:58,634 Where are they taking you, Charlie? 586 00:49:20,312 --> 00:49:22,304 - How bad is it? - I've seen worse. 587 00:49:22,565 --> 00:49:26,559 Oh, come on. No one's ever been this low in the polls and won. 588 00:49:26,902 --> 00:49:30,578 - Be the first. Make 'em cry. - Oh, Francis. 589 00:49:31,907 --> 00:49:36,618 However this comes out, I'll tell the world what a hell of a man you are. 590 00:49:36,995 --> 00:49:41,387 - What are we up against? - The "Observer" doesn't implicate you. 591 00:49:41,750 --> 00:49:46,666 Very sensible of them. It'll blow over, Hal. These things always do. What else? 592 00:49:47,047 --> 00:49:50,563 A run on the pound. Doesn't mean a thing. 593 00:49:50,884 --> 00:49:56,482 It may bother the teenagers in the City with the Porsches, but voters don't care. 594 00:49:56,889 --> 00:50:03,125 "Leadership crisis"? That cretinous dwarf Bairsted's forcing a leadership contest. 595 00:50:03,604 --> 00:50:08,395 Want me to lean on him? I'll frighten the wits out of the little sod, if you like. 596 00:50:08,776 --> 00:50:11,575 Well, he's publicly declared now. 597 00:50:11,862 --> 00:50:15,776 Get him to publicly retract. Humiliate the little bastard. 598 00:50:16,158 --> 00:50:19,947 But, no. I think you're right, Prime Minister. 599 00:50:20,287 --> 00:50:24,884 Let him come onto the punch. Knock him down and trample him. 600 00:50:25,250 --> 00:50:28,243 And do the TV interview on Wednesday? 601 00:50:28,545 --> 00:50:34,098 I'd say so, yes. Insist they leave this Mendox shares nonsense till the end. 602 00:50:34,551 --> 00:50:40,548 By then, everyone will be rooting for you. It'll seem like an irrelevance, which it is. 603 00:50:40,974 --> 00:50:44,206 Yes. Thank you. We're not finished yet. 604 00:50:47,397 --> 00:50:52,188 Right, stand by, studio, please. Counting from VT in ten seconds. 605 00:50:52,568 --> 00:50:57,085 - Very quiet. - Very quiet, please, now. Five... 606 00:50:57,448 --> 00:51:00,520 - All right? - Yes, fine. 607 00:51:01,827 --> 00:51:04,422 For the last few minutes of this interview, 608 00:51:04,747 --> 00:51:10,744 could we turn to the allegations about improper share dealing by your brother? 609 00:51:11,169 --> 00:51:14,560 - With pleasure. - You issued a statement. 610 00:51:14,881 --> 00:51:19,876 You denied any connection with this, and suggested it was mistaken identity. 611 00:51:20,262 --> 00:51:26,498 That's correct. It's not for me to explain the "Observer's" extraordinary mistake. 612 00:51:26,976 --> 00:51:31,767 All I can tell you is that none of my family has anything to do with it. 613 00:51:32,148 --> 00:51:36,347 - You have my word of honour on that. 614 00:51:36,694 --> 00:51:40,893 Solicitors have initiated proceedings against the "Observer". 615 00:51:41,240 --> 00:51:46,759 They'll do so against anyone who repeats these false and malicious statements. 616 00:51:47,163 --> 00:51:51,362 - Thank you. We'll bear that in mind. - That would be wise. 617 00:51:51,709 --> 00:51:56,738 You and your brother deny that either of you opened an accommodation address 618 00:51:57,130 --> 00:51:59,599 - at a newsagent's? - Correct. 619 00:51:59,925 --> 00:52:04,795 On Monday of this week, Jane Hartston of our staff visited the address. 620 00:52:05,180 --> 00:52:07,775 She photographed envelopes addressed to your brother. 621 00:52:08,058 --> 00:52:12,769 - Now, look here... - This, clearly marked "Ottoman Union Bank". 622 00:52:13,188 --> 00:52:18,786 The second is addressed to your brother from the Conservative Party sales office. 623 00:52:22,488 --> 00:52:25,481 I really cannot see any relevance in this. 624 00:52:25,783 --> 00:52:29,572 Quite clearly it is a case of mistaken identity. 625 00:52:30,496 --> 00:52:36,174 - I do have to warn you... - We thought about the name Charles Collingridge. 626 00:52:36,627 --> 00:52:42,419 Maybe some other Charles Collingridge took advantage of secret government decisions. 627 00:52:42,841 --> 00:52:48,838 But there's only one Charles Collingridge listed in the London telephone directory. 628 00:52:49,264 --> 00:52:51,654 Your brother. 629 00:52:54,060 --> 00:52:59,055 Prime Minister, we've almost finished. Is there anything you would like to say? 630 00:53:10,535 --> 00:53:14,654 Well, the Prime Minister declines to comment any further 631 00:53:14,997 --> 00:53:17,717 on his alleged involvement in the Mendox shares scandal. 632 00:53:18,042 --> 00:53:22,036 That's all from us at "World Watch" tonight. Good night. 633 00:53:25,174 --> 00:53:26,972 Urquhart. 634 00:53:28,010 --> 00:53:30,400 I had a feeling it might be you. 635 00:53:30,679 --> 00:53:35,674 Sorry to disturb you at home. I'd be very grateful if you give me a few minutes. 636 00:53:36,101 --> 00:53:39,094 Not on the telephone. Come here. 637 00:53:39,396 --> 00:53:42,594 I'd prefer it if you didn't tell your colleagues. 638 00:53:42,941 --> 00:53:45,331 I'll see you in ten minutes. 639 00:53:51,741 --> 00:53:57,738 - He can't survive this, can he? - I shall rally all the support I can get. 640 00:53:58,164 --> 00:54:00,918 Off the record, it's not going to be easy. 641 00:54:01,250 --> 00:54:05,039 Do you think he told his brother about those shares? 642 00:54:05,379 --> 00:54:08,372 I find it impossible to believe he'd do that. 643 00:54:08,716 --> 00:54:11,515 I consider him a totally honourable man. 644 00:54:11,802 --> 00:54:14,192 - But? - But, Mattie? 645 00:54:14,471 --> 00:54:18,943 - Not quite up to his job. - Mattie, you might very well think that. 646 00:54:19,309 --> 00:54:21,778 You know I couldn't possibly comment. 647 00:54:24,398 --> 00:54:27,914 - I really like talking to you. - Of course you do. 648 00:54:28,235 --> 00:54:30,830 You love tempting me into indiscretions. 649 00:54:31,112 --> 00:54:36,949 Others give me the party line. You talk to me like an intelligent human being. 650 00:54:37,410 --> 00:54:39,925 I like talking to you. 651 00:54:40,204 --> 00:54:42,594 I'm interested in you. 652 00:54:43,541 --> 00:54:45,851 You find that strange? 653 00:54:46,127 --> 00:54:48,323 I find it very flattering. 654 00:54:48,588 --> 00:54:52,218 I happen to think you're the ablest man in this government. 655 00:54:52,591 --> 00:54:57,382 - Oh, no, no, no. You're too kind. - You underestimate yourself. Shame. 656 00:54:57,763 --> 00:55:01,154 Underestimate myself? In what way? 657 00:55:01,475 --> 00:55:06,470 You underestimate your ability and your capacity for power, I think. 658 00:55:06,855 --> 00:55:11,054 And I think you underestimate your personal attractiveness. 659 00:55:11,401 --> 00:55:16,192 Now, that is absurd, Mattie. You can't expect me to fall for that. 660 00:55:16,573 --> 00:55:19,372 I'm old enough to be your father. 661 00:55:19,659 --> 00:55:22,458 Perhaps that's something to do with it. 662 00:55:38,636 --> 00:55:42,425 Oddly enough, I always wanted a daughter. 663 00:55:42,765 --> 00:55:45,485 My wife and I have no children. 664 00:55:50,272 --> 00:55:54,551 What a very unusual interview this has turned out to be. 665 00:55:54,902 --> 00:55:58,213 Perhaps we should... No, I must say this. 666 00:55:59,865 --> 00:56:03,063 You mustn't underestimate your abilities. 667 00:56:03,368 --> 00:56:05,166 Really. 668 00:56:06,579 --> 00:56:11,574 You know you could go much further than you have done, don't you? 669 00:56:13,795 --> 00:56:16,105 Do you think so? 670 00:56:17,173 --> 00:56:19,563 If you put your mind to it... 671 00:56:20,718 --> 00:56:24,507 ..I think you could achieve anything you wanted. 672 00:56:24,847 --> 00:56:26,520 You might think that, Mattie. 673 00:56:27,850 --> 00:56:31,048 I'm afraid I couldn't possibly comment.