1 00:00:40,000 --> 00:00:43,470 Gentlemen, we're here to consider security clearance 2 00:00:43,640 --> 00:00:46,632 for the publication of my predecessor's memoirs. 3 00:00:46,800 --> 00:00:50,588 - Solicitor General. - We've already approved chapters 1 to 7. 4 00:00:50,760 --> 00:00:56,949 - I see no reason to withhold approval for 8. - There is some highly questionable material. 5 00:00:57,120 --> 00:01:00,112 - Such as? - Well, page 211, for a start. 6 00:01:02,320 --> 00:01:08,509 It only says, "The Administrative Affairs Minister supported the expansion of Sellafield in Cabinet, 7 00:01:08,680 --> 00:01:13,276 - "but spoke out against it in public." - That was me. I was the minister. 8 00:01:13,440 --> 00:01:17,433 - The point is it's not a security leak. - But it isn't true. 9 00:01:17,600 --> 00:01:21,798 The documentation is fairly impressive, but with respect, 10 00:01:21,960 --> 00:01:26,829 if he's libelled you, it's a matter for the courts, not for the Security Clearance Committee. 11 00:01:27,000 --> 00:01:31,710 We can't have such accusations spread around. It's not just page 211 either. 12 00:01:31,880 --> 00:01:37,079 On 224, there's a scurrilous accusation about my stopping that chemical-plant project 13 00:01:37,240 --> 00:01:39,834 because of a baseless press scare. 14 00:01:40,000 --> 00:01:43,390 Then there's an indefensible passage about me on page 231. 15 00:01:43,560 --> 00:01:48,156 Oh, 231. "Hacker was more interested in votes than principles, 16 00:01:48,320 --> 00:01:53,110 "running for cover at the first whiff of unpopularity. 17 00:01:53,280 --> 00:01:57,671 "He raised the average age of Cabinet but lowered the average IQ." 18 00:01:59,760 --> 00:02:03,514 Thank you, Humphrey. We've all read the chapter. 19 00:02:03,680 --> 00:02:09,277 As I said, I'm not supporting or defending him, but it's not an actual security breach. 20 00:02:09,440 --> 00:02:12,238 Chapter 5 got leaked and we took no action. 21 00:02:12,400 --> 00:02:17,758 Oh, well, chapter 5 was very complimentary about my getting the Kumran contract. 22 00:02:17,920 --> 00:02:22,118 It had as much confidential material and you never had a leak inquiry. 23 00:02:22,280 --> 00:02:26,990 Well... anybody could have leaked that chapter to the press. 24 00:02:29,920 --> 00:02:31,911 Anybody. 25 00:02:32,080 --> 00:02:36,153 - I mean, even the title of chapter 8... - "The Two Faces Of Jim Hacker." 26 00:02:36,320 --> 00:02:38,515 Er, that's not a secret, surely. 27 00:02:41,240 --> 00:02:44,949 I think there are security implications. Sellafield is nuclear. 28 00:02:45,120 --> 00:02:49,557 The Energy Secretary has seen the chapter and he says he has no problems. 29 00:02:49,720 --> 00:02:54,669 No! It describes him as the ablest minister in Cabinet. Another slur on me. 30 00:02:54,840 --> 00:02:57,434 - It isn't actionable. - Let's be clear. 31 00:02:57,600 --> 00:03:00,797 - We have the right to refuse publication. - We have. 32 00:03:00,960 --> 00:03:05,556 If they publish anyway, we'll have no hope of stopping it through the courts. 33 00:03:05,720 --> 00:03:08,518 - Lean on the publishers. - On what grounds? 34 00:03:08,680 --> 00:03:10,989 - National interest. - I've already... 35 00:03:11,160 --> 00:03:16,359 It's obscene filth. It cannot be in the national interest to ridicule the national leader. 36 00:03:16,520 --> 00:03:21,719 I mean... undermine confidence in the national leadership. 37 00:03:21,880 --> 00:03:24,633 Chapter 8 must not be published, right? 38 00:03:31,040 --> 00:03:33,838 - Well, Bernard? - No, not very, Sir Humphrey. 39 00:03:35,880 --> 00:03:37,871 Has the PM seen that yet? 40 00:03:38,040 --> 00:03:42,397 They quoted it on "Today". He'd have listened to it while he had breakfast. 41 00:03:42,560 --> 00:03:45,154 I heard it. They had HIM for breakfast. 42 00:03:45,320 --> 00:03:49,199 They had fun with, "Jim Hacker raised the average age of the Cabinet... 43 00:03:49,360 --> 00:03:52,511 (BOTH) "...but lowered the average IQ." 44 00:03:52,680 --> 00:03:58,152 - Actually, it is rather amusing. - Yes, it is. But, er, on the other hand... 45 00:03:58,320 --> 00:04:01,710 I know. Have you any explanation for this leak? 46 00:04:01,880 --> 00:04:04,838 - It wasn't me. - Of course it wasn't you! 47 00:04:05,000 --> 00:04:08,470 It's hardly in your interest or mine to leak THAT chapter. 48 00:04:08,640 --> 00:04:12,349 It's not just chapter 8, it's the report that he tried to suppress it. 49 00:04:12,520 --> 00:04:16,308 - The leak came from someone at the meeting. - Good morning. 50 00:04:16,480 --> 00:04:20,871 - What makes him think that? - Is he... er...? Has he... 51 00:04:21,880 --> 00:04:25,873 Half of Britain's press corps are here waiting for his response. 52 00:04:26,040 --> 00:04:28,793 - Only half? - The other half are on the phone. 53 00:04:28,960 --> 00:04:30,951 The foreign press have picked it up. 54 00:04:31,120 --> 00:04:34,590 I've had interview requests from "Le Monde", the "Washington Post", 55 00:04:34,760 --> 00:04:37,558 and "Women's Wear Daily". 56 00:04:37,720 --> 00:04:41,554 - How do you think he'll take it? - (INTERCOM BUZZER) 57 00:04:41,720 --> 00:04:44,188 We're just about to find out. 58 00:04:44,360 --> 00:04:47,830 (IMPATIENT CONTINUOUS BUZZING) 59 00:04:55,280 --> 00:04:56,872 Well? 60 00:04:57,840 --> 00:05:00,912 Well? Well, say something. 61 00:05:03,320 --> 00:05:07,711 - Good morning, Prime Minister. - Good morning, Prime Minister. 62 00:05:07,880 --> 00:05:12,032 Seen this? You're my press secretary, Bill. It's a catastrophe! 63 00:05:12,200 --> 00:05:15,192 - With respect... - With no respect at all! 64 00:05:15,360 --> 00:05:20,957 No respect for confidentiality, no respect for the national interest or the national leader! 65 00:05:21,120 --> 00:05:23,554 - Who leaked it? - Who can say? 66 00:05:23,720 --> 00:05:28,191 You can say and you'd better say! I want this traced at once! 67 00:05:28,360 --> 00:05:32,148 - It must've been somebody at the meeting. - I'll set up a leak inquiry. 68 00:05:32,320 --> 00:05:36,108 I don't want a leak inquiry. I want to find out who did it. 69 00:05:37,120 --> 00:05:40,908 One normally doesn't want to find out who's responsible 70 00:05:41,080 --> 00:05:43,799 in case it turns out to be one of the Cabinet. 71 00:05:43,960 --> 00:05:48,670 The Solicitor General and I were the only ministers present. Law officers never leak. 72 00:05:48,840 --> 00:05:52,549 He had nothing to gain, it wasn't me and all the rest were officials. 73 00:05:52,720 --> 00:05:57,316 - I will pursue this through to the courts! - The press are all waiting. 74 00:05:57,480 --> 00:06:00,950 There are four requests for TV interviews and eleven for radio. 75 00:06:01,120 --> 00:06:07,593 Marvellous. Last week, I was dying to tell them about my achieving detente with the Soviets. 76 00:06:07,760 --> 00:06:11,639 Now this happens and they charge in like a herd of vultures. 77 00:06:11,800 --> 00:06:14,109 Not herd, Prime Minister. 78 00:06:15,400 --> 00:06:17,834 (CLEARLY) Charge in like a herd... 79 00:06:18,000 --> 00:06:20,389 Vultures don't herd, they flock. 80 00:06:21,920 --> 00:06:24,514 And they don't charge, they... er... 81 00:06:27,200 --> 00:06:30,397 - What do they do, Bernard? - They... er... 82 00:06:36,080 --> 00:06:38,071 Sit down, Bernard. 83 00:06:40,400 --> 00:06:42,709 Why can't the press support Britain? 84 00:06:42,880 --> 00:06:46,714 Why do they muck-rake? Why can't they write about our successes? 85 00:06:46,880 --> 00:06:51,112 - Like... er...? - Well, like my detente with the Soviets. 86 00:06:51,280 --> 00:06:56,434 There are friendly noises from the Kremlin, but it hasn't led to anything concrete. 87 00:06:56,600 --> 00:06:58,989 - It's going to. - I'm sorry. 88 00:06:59,160 --> 00:07:04,632 I have to tell them something about you trying to suppress your predecessor's memoirs. 89 00:07:04,800 --> 00:07:08,998 Very well. Talk to them off the record. "Sources close to the Prime Minister." 90 00:07:09,160 --> 00:07:11,355 - Say nothing attributable. - Right. 91 00:07:11,520 --> 00:07:14,910 Say that what he said about me is a pack of lies. 92 00:07:15,080 --> 00:07:19,631 Um... you mean about... er... running for cover and that sort of thing? 93 00:07:20,480 --> 00:07:23,677 - Yes. - The problem is, it is the author's opinion. 94 00:07:23,840 --> 00:07:26,149 We can't call him a liar for an opinion. 95 00:07:26,320 --> 00:07:30,996 Well, say that it's a pack of lies about my supporting Sellafield in Cabinet 96 00:07:31,160 --> 00:07:33,151 but speaking against it in public. 97 00:07:33,320 --> 00:07:37,108 - Er, yes, but the thing is, it is sort of true. - Oh, shut up, Bernard. 98 00:07:38,200 --> 00:07:40,430 How do we say it's a pack of lies? 99 00:07:40,600 --> 00:07:43,910 The PM's recollection is at variance with his predecessor's. 100 00:07:44,080 --> 00:07:47,390 Then say the Cabinet minutes vindicate me completely, 101 00:07:47,560 --> 00:07:53,749 but, unfortunately, owing to the 30-year rule, they can't be disclosed for another 25 years, 102 00:07:53,920 --> 00:07:57,356 which makes his book deeply unfair as well as untrue. 103 00:07:57,520 --> 00:08:01,308 - What about the smears against you personally? - Smear him. 104 00:08:01,480 --> 00:08:07,476 Say that he's trying to re-write history to make his own premiership look a little less disastrous. 105 00:08:07,640 --> 00:08:10,950 - Imply that he's going gaga. - Fine. 106 00:08:11,120 --> 00:08:16,148 "Passage of time and separation from official records have perhaps clouded his memory." 107 00:08:16,320 --> 00:08:21,917 - Yeah. What about the gaga bit? - "One would expect it from a man of his age." 108 00:08:22,080 --> 00:08:24,548 - That do? - That's OK for the chapter. 109 00:08:24,720 --> 00:08:29,510 - What about your trying to prevent publication? - Say that's a pack of lies, too. 110 00:08:29,680 --> 00:08:33,389 "Garbled account of a routine meeting. No question of suppression." 111 00:08:33,560 --> 00:08:36,358 - Do you want to give interviews? - No. 112 00:08:36,520 --> 00:08:39,512 - Shall I say why? - Make it a quote. 113 00:08:39,680 --> 00:08:45,550 "Insignificant matter of no national importance. Typical of the media's trivialisation of politics." 114 00:08:45,720 --> 00:08:50,510 - And who shall I attribute that quote to? - Close Cabinet colleague. 115 00:08:52,320 --> 00:08:54,311 Thank you, Prime Minister. 116 00:08:55,600 --> 00:09:00,594 - This is a disaster. - Oh, surely it's not all that serious. 117 00:09:00,760 --> 00:09:04,389 Telling the public they can't trust their Prime Minister? 118 00:09:04,560 --> 00:09:07,870 They won't believe that. 119 00:09:08,040 --> 00:09:11,077 - Think not? - Of course not. 120 00:09:11,240 --> 00:09:14,869 They might. Or they couldn't trust their ex-Prime Minister. 121 00:09:15,040 --> 00:09:18,350 - Yes, thank you. - They never could trust him. 122 00:09:18,520 --> 00:09:21,512 Thank goodness I've brought back honesty. 123 00:09:21,680 --> 00:09:25,753 - Thank goodness, Prime Minister. - Now, about nailing that leak. 124 00:09:25,920 --> 00:09:29,549 Sorry to be pedantic, but if you nail a leak, you make another. 125 00:09:34,480 --> 00:09:38,075 I want to trace the culprit and I want a prosecution. 126 00:09:38,240 --> 00:09:41,630 - Yes, Prime Minister. - And I want a conviction. 127 00:09:41,800 --> 00:09:45,395 We can try and trace the culprit, we can prosecute, 128 00:09:45,560 --> 00:09:47,551 but under our political system, 129 00:09:47,720 --> 00:09:52,430 there are problems about the government actually guaranteeing a conviction. 130 00:09:52,600 --> 00:09:55,797 Oh, surely. Little drinkie with the judge? 131 00:09:57,200 --> 00:10:01,318 Unthinkable. There is no way any pressure can be placed on a judge. 132 00:10:01,480 --> 00:10:06,235 - How does one secure a conviction? - Find a judge who won't need any pressure. 133 00:10:08,360 --> 00:10:13,753 A word with the Lord Chancellor. Find a judge who's hoping to be made a Lord of Appeal. 134 00:10:13,920 --> 00:10:17,799 Then leave justice to take her own impartial and majestic course. 135 00:10:17,960 --> 00:10:20,155 - That does the trick? - Not always. 136 00:10:20,320 --> 00:10:26,111 Sometimes they're so obviously trying to convict, the jury acquits out of sheer bloody-mindedness. 137 00:10:26,280 --> 00:10:29,829 - You need a judge with common sense. - Oh, yes. 138 00:10:30,000 --> 00:10:32,798 Won't be as easy as you make out. 139 00:10:35,680 --> 00:10:41,073 - What are you asking me to tell my readers? - I'm not asking you to tell them anything. 140 00:10:41,240 --> 00:10:44,949 - I'm just putting my side of the story. - Why the big fuss? 141 00:10:45,120 --> 00:10:49,272 I have not got two faces and I did not try to suppress that chapter. 142 00:10:49,440 --> 00:10:52,034 - Can I quote you? - You may not quote me 143 00:10:52,200 --> 00:10:54,555 denying that I have two faces. 144 00:10:55,360 --> 00:10:58,955 It was worth a try. Dunno why you're so upset, Jim. 145 00:10:59,120 --> 00:11:04,831 The article doesn't exactly flatter you, but it's part of the rough and tumble of political life. 146 00:11:05,000 --> 00:11:09,039 A responsible newspaper ought not to print such smears. Why did you? 147 00:11:09,200 --> 00:11:13,239 'Cause it sold us over 100,000 extra copies. 148 00:11:13,400 --> 00:11:16,472 Didn't you realise how damaging that accusation is? 149 00:11:16,640 --> 00:11:21,430 Here's this damaging accusation. Are you saying you didn't try to stop it? 150 00:11:21,600 --> 00:11:25,673 Of course I didn't. It's a free country. Freedom of speech. 151 00:11:25,840 --> 00:11:29,469 - It's damaging to you personally. - Not that damaging. 152 00:11:29,640 --> 00:11:34,236 - What's the fuss, then? - It's not the damage to me personally I mind. 153 00:11:34,400 --> 00:11:39,190 - It's the damage to Britain that I worry about. - Britain? 154 00:11:39,360 --> 00:11:45,230 Undermining the leadership can damage the nation - with foreigners, the pound. 155 00:11:46,960 --> 00:11:52,876 - I want you to retract that suppression story. - Hm. I don't see how I can. 156 00:11:53,040 --> 00:11:57,750 - Of course you can. You're the editor. - I'm not a general commanding an army. 157 00:11:57,920 --> 00:12:03,313 I'm the ringmaster of a circus. I book the acts, but I can't tell the acrobats which way to jump! 158 00:12:07,640 --> 00:12:11,110 It wouldn't be helpful to make us think we couldn't trust you. 159 00:12:11,280 --> 00:12:16,877 We'd like to cooperate with the press, but you're making it difficult for us. 160 00:12:17,040 --> 00:12:23,229 I don't think it'd be helpful if you made it seem as though you were hostile to our paper. 161 00:12:23,400 --> 00:12:26,836 We like to cooperate with No.10, but if it's war... 162 00:12:27,000 --> 00:12:30,993 No, no, no, no, no, I... No, I wasn't suggesting... 163 00:12:31,160 --> 00:12:35,915 All I meant was that there could be exclusive interviews, photo opportunities... 164 00:12:36,080 --> 00:12:38,958 - If I retract? - If you print the truth. 165 00:12:40,200 --> 00:12:44,193 I have to stick by my story until I get hard evidence that it's not true. 166 00:12:44,360 --> 00:12:47,272 - Such as? - The minutes of the meeting. 167 00:12:48,560 --> 00:12:52,348 - I don't see why not. My integrity is at stake. - Prime Minister... 168 00:12:52,520 --> 00:12:56,559 Bernard, the minutes bear out my version of the meeting, don't they? 169 00:12:56,720 --> 00:12:59,393 Well, I... er... um... 170 00:12:59,560 --> 00:13:02,836 Well, I... er... yes. 171 00:13:03,000 --> 00:13:07,949 Yes, Derek, you may see them. I know they're usually confidential, but this is a special case. 172 00:13:08,120 --> 00:13:12,432 - Can I publish them? - We'll see. I'll have another look at them. 173 00:13:12,600 --> 00:13:15,592 Bernard, show them to me this afternoon. 174 00:13:17,120 --> 00:13:19,918 - (KNOCK AT DOOR) - Yes? 175 00:13:20,080 --> 00:13:23,868 - Sir Humphrey, have you got a moment? - Yes, Bernard. 176 00:13:28,680 --> 00:13:31,114 Er... I've got a problem. 177 00:13:31,280 --> 00:13:33,475 - Yes, Bernard. - You know? 178 00:13:33,640 --> 00:13:35,232 - Yes. - How? 179 00:13:35,400 --> 00:13:39,712 - Because you've just told me. - Do you know what my problem is? 180 00:13:39,880 --> 00:13:43,156 Your problem is that you don't ever come to the point. 181 00:13:43,320 --> 00:13:47,836 Sorry. The PM has just had lunch with Derek Burnham, the editor... 182 00:13:48,000 --> 00:13:50,798 - I know who he is. - The PM told him 183 00:13:50,960 --> 00:13:55,750 that the minutes of Cabinet Committee confirm that he didn't try to suppress chapter 8 184 00:13:55,920 --> 00:13:58,514 and that he'd publish them if necessary. 185 00:13:58,680 --> 00:14:02,878 - So what is your problem? - Well, the minutes aren't written yet. 186 00:14:03,040 --> 00:14:06,316 - I see. - So, er, what should I do? 187 00:14:07,240 --> 00:14:09,276 Write them, dear Bernard. 188 00:14:10,440 --> 00:14:14,228 The problem is the PM did try to suppress the chapter, didn't he? 189 00:14:15,040 --> 00:14:18,032 - I don't know. Did he? - Don't you remember? 190 00:14:18,200 --> 00:14:22,910 What I remember is irrelevant. If the minutes don't say that he did, then he didn't. 191 00:14:23,600 --> 00:14:28,310 - So you want me to falsify the minutes? - I want nothing of the sort! 192 00:14:28,480 --> 00:14:32,871 - What do YOU want, Bernard? - I want to have a clear conscience. 193 00:14:33,040 --> 00:14:35,031 - A clear conscience. - Yes. 194 00:14:36,120 --> 00:14:39,874 When did you acquire this taste for luxuries? 195 00:14:41,360 --> 00:14:44,352 Consciences are for politicians, Bernard. 196 00:14:44,520 --> 00:14:46,511 We are humble functionaries 197 00:14:46,680 --> 00:14:50,673 whose duty it is to implement the commands of elected representatives. 198 00:14:50,840 --> 00:14:55,960 How could we be doing anything wrong if it has been commanded by those representatives? 199 00:14:56,120 --> 00:14:59,908 - I can't accept that. No man is an island. - I agree, Bernard. 200 00:15:00,080 --> 00:15:03,072 "No man is an island, entire of itself; 201 00:15:03,240 --> 00:15:05,435 "And therefore 202 00:15:05,600 --> 00:15:10,628 "never send to know for whom the bell tolls." 203 00:15:10,800 --> 00:15:13,268 It tolls for thee, Bernard. 204 00:15:14,480 --> 00:15:20,271 - So what do you suggest, Sir Humphrey? - Minutes do not record everything, do they? 205 00:15:20,440 --> 00:15:24,433 - No, of course not. - People change their minds during a meeting. 206 00:15:24,600 --> 00:15:28,878 - Yes... - So the meeting is a mass of ingredients. 207 00:15:29,040 --> 00:15:33,238 - Oh, like cooking. - Like... No, not like cooking, Bernard. 208 00:15:33,400 --> 00:15:37,393 Better not use that word in connection with books or minutes. 209 00:15:37,560 --> 00:15:41,951 You choose from a jumble of ill-digested ideas 210 00:15:42,120 --> 00:15:45,112 a version which represents the PM's views 211 00:15:45,280 --> 00:15:49,114 as he would, on reflection, have liked them to emerge. 212 00:15:49,280 --> 00:15:51,510 But if it's not a true record... 213 00:15:51,680 --> 00:15:56,674 The purpose of minutes is not to record events, it is to protect people. 214 00:15:56,840 --> 00:16:01,834 You do not take notes if the Prime Minister says something he did not mean to say, 215 00:16:02,000 --> 00:16:06,790 particularly if it contradicts something he has said publicly. 216 00:16:06,960 --> 00:16:11,988 You try to improve on what has been said, put it in a better order. You are tactful. 217 00:16:12,160 --> 00:16:15,550 - But how do I justify that? - You are his servant. 218 00:16:15,720 --> 00:16:20,111 - Oh, yes. - A minute is a note for the records 219 00:16:20,280 --> 00:16:24,068 and a statement of action, if any, that was agreed upon. 220 00:16:24,240 --> 00:16:28,233 - What happened at the meeting? - Well, the book was discussed. 221 00:16:28,400 --> 00:16:32,871 The Solicitor General advised there were no legal grounds for suppressing it. 222 00:16:33,040 --> 00:16:36,828 And did the PM accept what the Solicitor General had said? 223 00:16:37,000 --> 00:16:40,788 He accepted the fact there were no legal grounds for suppression... 224 00:16:40,960 --> 00:16:43,155 He accepted the fact 225 00:16:43,320 --> 00:16:48,269 that there were no legal grounds for suppression. You see? 226 00:16:48,440 --> 00:16:50,237 Oh. 227 00:16:51,520 --> 00:16:53,715 - Is that a lie? - No. 228 00:16:53,880 --> 00:16:56,075 - Can you write it in the minutes? - Yes. 229 00:16:56,240 --> 00:16:59,630 - How's your conscience? - Much better, thank you. 230 00:17:06,480 --> 00:17:09,472 Bernard Woolley? Your minutes were published today. 231 00:17:09,640 --> 00:17:13,679 - The minutes of Jim Hacker's meeting. - I know. I've got to go to work. 232 00:17:13,840 --> 00:17:16,434 - Answer a few questions. - I can't comment. 233 00:17:16,600 --> 00:17:19,478 - But it all looks very suspicious. - What? 234 00:17:19,640 --> 00:17:24,031 - Why did it take so long to publish them? - Because they weren't... 235 00:17:24,200 --> 00:17:26,589 Weren't cleared for publication? 236 00:17:26,760 --> 00:17:32,835 - But the PM cleared them last Thursday. - Yes, but there's the Official Secrets Act. 237 00:17:33,000 --> 00:17:37,596 - So how can they be cleared for publication? - The PM can clear anything. 238 00:17:37,760 --> 00:17:41,753 Are you saying the PM is not subject to the Official Secrets Act? 239 00:17:41,920 --> 00:17:45,674 - Well... no. - No, he is or no, he isn't? 240 00:17:45,840 --> 00:17:49,992 - Yes. - You're saying that Hacker makes the rules. 241 00:17:50,160 --> 00:17:52,116 - No. - That's what you said. 242 00:17:52,280 --> 00:17:56,717 - Yes. - So the Prime Minister is above the law. 243 00:17:56,880 --> 00:17:59,394 - Not in theory. - But in practice? 244 00:18:00,840 --> 00:18:03,115 - No comment. - Very interesting. 245 00:18:04,040 --> 00:18:07,237 Look, I'm not sure I've made myself clear. 246 00:18:07,400 --> 00:18:09,630 Oh, you've made it very clear. 247 00:18:09,800 --> 00:18:13,588 Any truth in the rumour that your minutes took four days to appear 248 00:18:13,760 --> 00:18:16,877 because Mr Hacker can only type with two fingers? 249 00:18:18,200 --> 00:18:20,191 Excuse me, I must go. 250 00:18:21,520 --> 00:18:26,389 Oh... er... by the way, I was speaking off the record. 251 00:18:26,560 --> 00:18:28,949 Sorry, a bit late to say that now. 252 00:18:35,040 --> 00:18:37,600 - Prime Minister. - Yes, Bernard? 253 00:18:37,760 --> 00:18:40,752 - Have you got a moment? - Yes, Bernard. 254 00:18:44,920 --> 00:18:47,718 Er... I've got a problem. 255 00:18:50,000 --> 00:18:52,719 - Get on with it, Bernard. - Er... yes. 256 00:18:52,880 --> 00:18:55,440 I've just been interviewed by the press. 257 00:18:55,600 --> 00:18:59,309 - You? You gave an interview? - Er, yes, I'm afraid so. 258 00:18:59,480 --> 00:19:03,871 - That's not your job. - I couldn't help it. I just... It just happened. 259 00:19:04,040 --> 00:19:07,430 - They trapped me into speaking to them. - What did you say? 260 00:19:07,600 --> 00:19:11,195 - Nothing, really. - Well, what's your problem? 261 00:19:11,360 --> 00:19:15,558 - They were asking me about you. - What about me? 262 00:19:15,720 --> 00:19:18,109 - About the Official Secrets Act. - And? 263 00:19:18,280 --> 00:19:20,999 - Whether you were bound by it. - Of course I am! 264 00:19:21,160 --> 00:19:25,073 Of course you are, but it... it might not come out like that. 265 00:19:28,000 --> 00:19:29,991 What do you mean? 266 00:19:30,160 --> 00:19:35,154 Thinking back on what I said and what they said and what I said you said 267 00:19:35,320 --> 00:19:38,039 and what they may say I said you said 268 00:19:38,200 --> 00:19:41,670 or what they may have thought I said I thought you thought, 269 00:19:41,840 --> 00:19:45,230 they may say I said I thought you said you thought... 270 00:19:48,120 --> 00:19:50,588 Go on, Bernard. 271 00:19:50,760 --> 00:19:54,719 Well, I think I said you said you thought you were above the law. 272 00:19:55,920 --> 00:19:58,070 You said that?! 273 00:19:58,240 --> 00:20:03,678 Not intentionally. It's just the way it came out. They were asking me all these questions. 274 00:20:03,840 --> 00:20:07,310 What makes you think you have to answer them? 275 00:20:07,480 --> 00:20:11,109 - I don't know. - You've never answered my questions! 276 00:20:11,280 --> 00:20:14,272 - I know... - After a lifetime in the Civil Service, 277 00:20:14,440 --> 00:20:17,432 a career devoted to avoiding questions, 278 00:20:17,600 --> 00:20:21,070 you suddenly decide to answer them today and to the press?! 279 00:20:21,240 --> 00:20:23,356 You must have flipped your lid! 280 00:20:23,520 --> 00:20:28,913 Please don't shout at me! I assure you, I won't answer questions ever again! 281 00:20:30,040 --> 00:20:32,429 Get Humphrey and Bill in here. 282 00:20:34,560 --> 00:20:37,552 Send Sir Humphrey in and Bill Pritchard. 283 00:20:37,720 --> 00:20:43,113 If this question should ever arise again, this is how you deal with questions. 284 00:20:43,280 --> 00:20:45,748 If you have nothing to say, say nothing. 285 00:20:45,920 --> 00:20:49,913 Better still, have something to say and say it, no matter what they ask. 286 00:20:50,080 --> 00:20:53,789 Pay no attention to the question. Just make your own statement. 287 00:20:53,960 --> 00:20:57,748 If they ask the question again, you say, "That's not the question" 288 00:20:57,920 --> 00:21:03,517 or "I think the real question is..." and then you make another statement of your own. 289 00:21:05,000 --> 00:21:10,358 - How's that leak inquiry coming on? - The wheels will be turning very soon. 290 00:21:10,520 --> 00:21:14,513 I asked you a week ago! What's the matter with you two? 291 00:21:14,680 --> 00:21:17,672 I'm sorry, I had no idea you were serious. 292 00:21:20,840 --> 00:21:23,229 Leak inquiries are not usually pursued. 293 00:21:23,400 --> 00:21:26,995 I want this one pursued rigorously and immediately! 294 00:21:27,160 --> 00:21:29,549 - Rigorously? - And immediately. 295 00:21:29,720 --> 00:21:32,712 - Immediately? - Immediately. 296 00:21:32,880 --> 00:21:35,872 You mean you REALLY want it pursued? 297 00:21:36,040 --> 00:21:39,794 Watch the lips move, Humphrey. I want it pursued. Now. 298 00:21:39,960 --> 00:21:43,350 Very well, Prime Minister, if you're serious. 299 00:21:43,520 --> 00:21:47,832 I will arrange a genuine inquiry if that's what you really want. 300 00:21:48,000 --> 00:21:51,595 - I'll get Inspector Plod of the Special Branch. - Thank you. 301 00:21:51,760 --> 00:21:57,756 We must do something to improve my relations with the press, which deteriorated considerably 302 00:21:57,920 --> 00:22:03,870 when my private secretary told them I felt I was above the law when it came to official secrets. 303 00:22:04,040 --> 00:22:06,554 Yes, you may well hang your head. 304 00:22:08,680 --> 00:22:14,471 - What's the constitutional position, Humphrey? - Well, in a sense, Bernard was right. 305 00:22:14,640 --> 00:22:17,837 The question, in a nutshell, is what is the difference 306 00:22:18,000 --> 00:22:21,037 between a breach of the Official Secrets Act 307 00:22:21,200 --> 00:22:25,512 and an unattributable, off-the-record briefing by a senior official? 308 00:22:25,680 --> 00:22:31,676 The former - a breach - is a criminal offence. A briefing is essential to keep the wheels turning. 309 00:22:31,840 --> 00:22:35,833 Is there a difference or is it a matter of convenience and interpretation? 310 00:22:36,000 --> 00:22:41,313 Is it a breach of the act if there is an unofficial, non-attributable briefing 311 00:22:41,480 --> 00:22:45,268 by an official who's been unofficially authorised by the Prime Minister? 312 00:22:45,440 --> 00:22:49,353 - Not if it's been authorised by the PM, no. - That's what I say. 313 00:22:49,520 --> 00:22:55,311 I should decide if it's in the national interest for something to be disclosed, not officials. 314 00:22:55,480 --> 00:23:01,271 - Last week's leak must've come from an official. - But what if the official was officially authorised 315 00:23:01,440 --> 00:23:03,590 or even unofficially authorised? 316 00:23:03,760 --> 00:23:09,756 What if the PM officially disapproves of a breach of the act, but unofficially approves? 317 00:23:09,920 --> 00:23:14,516 Then a leak would be unofficially official, but officially unofficial. 318 00:23:14,680 --> 00:23:17,877 - Thank you. You've been a tremendous help. - Thank you. 319 00:23:18,040 --> 00:23:22,750 Now, we've got to do something to repair the damage you two have done to me. 320 00:23:22,920 --> 00:23:26,310 I'd better have lunch with another editor, a friendlier one. 321 00:23:26,480 --> 00:23:32,999 - None of them are friendly at the moment. - Couldn't we offer one of them a knighthood? 322 00:23:34,160 --> 00:23:40,759 That can work for or against you. Do you have any control over them once you've given it? 323 00:23:40,920 --> 00:23:42,990 Wouldn't they be pleased? 324 00:23:43,160 --> 00:23:47,631 Having got an honour, he may feel free to say what he likes. Nothing to lose. 325 00:23:47,800 --> 00:23:49,791 You don't get gratitude afterwards. 326 00:23:49,960 --> 00:23:54,078 Gratitude is merely a lively expectation of favours to come. 327 00:23:55,520 --> 00:23:59,911 May I suggest that instead of trying to butter up the press, we distract them? 328 00:24:00,080 --> 00:24:02,230 - Let's give them a story. - Such as? 329 00:24:02,400 --> 00:24:04,709 Start a war, that sort of thing. 330 00:24:05,720 --> 00:24:09,554 - Start a war?! - Only a small war. 331 00:24:10,920 --> 00:24:13,639 Um... if I might intervene. 332 00:24:13,800 --> 00:24:16,519 Even a small war would be overkill. 333 00:24:18,200 --> 00:24:22,557 Why don't you expel 76 Soviet diplomats? 334 00:24:22,720 --> 00:24:29,398 That's always been our practice when we wish to ensure the press lose interest in something. 335 00:24:29,560 --> 00:24:31,755 - I can't do that. - Great headline. 336 00:24:31,920 --> 00:24:34,912 "Government cracks down on red spy ring." Very patriotic. 337 00:24:35,080 --> 00:24:40,871 - It must be a story that nobody can disprove. - And which will be believed even if it's denied. 338 00:24:41,040 --> 00:24:45,591 "Soviet ambassador's chauffeur is Lieutenant General in KGB." 339 00:24:46,360 --> 00:24:49,830 I can't do that. I've been working at this detente for weeks. 340 00:24:50,000 --> 00:24:52,992 It's the only thing that IS working at the moment. 341 00:24:53,160 --> 00:24:57,551 What do you think, Bernard? You're good at getting things into the papers. 342 00:24:57,720 --> 00:25:00,154 - What about a royal event? - Such as? 343 00:25:00,320 --> 00:25:04,154 An engagement, a divorce, a pregnancy. 344 00:25:07,360 --> 00:25:09,749 You can arrange that? 345 00:25:15,080 --> 00:25:18,789 - Has he read the leak inquiry report? - Yes. How do we handle it? 346 00:25:18,960 --> 00:25:24,876 Very difficult. There is almost no precedent for handling a leak inquiry which finds the culprit. 347 00:25:25,040 --> 00:25:29,397 - Especially when it's a senior civil servant. - I think we can save him. 348 00:25:29,560 --> 00:25:32,950 How? He was at the meeting. He's owned up. 349 00:25:33,120 --> 00:25:37,318 - There can't be any doubt that he is the leaker. - There's going to be. 350 00:25:37,480 --> 00:25:39,630 (INTERCOM BUZZER) 351 00:25:42,200 --> 00:25:46,079 There, Humphrey, you see? Just as I suspected. 352 00:25:46,240 --> 00:25:50,438 I want that press officer at the Department of Energy prosecuted. 353 00:25:50,600 --> 00:25:54,275 - I think not... - You think not? Because he's a civil servant? 354 00:25:54,440 --> 00:25:57,352 No, because it is not in your interests. 355 00:25:57,520 --> 00:26:01,559 That somebody should be punished for undermining government? 356 00:26:01,720 --> 00:26:03,711 The Attorney General 357 00:26:03,880 --> 00:26:08,874 says that a prosecution would not succeed because there are no security implications. 358 00:26:09,040 --> 00:26:11,395 At least it'd make an example of him. 359 00:26:11,560 --> 00:26:16,759 He advises that if we prosecute, we must undertake a similar Special Branch inquiry 360 00:26:16,920 --> 00:26:20,754 into the earlier leak of chapter 5 - your success in Kumran. 361 00:26:20,920 --> 00:26:24,117 Ah... well... that was completely different. 362 00:26:24,280 --> 00:26:27,317 - May one ask why? - Well, it was harmless. 363 00:26:27,480 --> 00:26:31,632 The Attorney General says that either both leaks are harmless or neither. 364 00:26:31,800 --> 00:26:35,236 Shall I ask Special Branch to work on the chapter 5 leak? 365 00:26:35,400 --> 00:26:38,597 Drop the prosecution, but sack the press officer. 366 00:26:38,760 --> 00:26:43,914 That could be difficult. There is evidence he was not acting on his own initiative. 367 00:26:44,080 --> 00:26:47,072 - Meaning? - They were his Secretary of State's wishes. 368 00:26:47,240 --> 00:26:50,835 - What?! - The Secretary was not displeased 369 00:26:51,000 --> 00:26:55,118 at being described as the ablest minister and he told his press officer 370 00:26:55,280 --> 00:27:01,071 that far from wanting the chapter suppressed, he wouldn't mind seeing it in the press at once. 371 00:27:01,240 --> 00:27:05,028 With reference to the fact that it might not otherwise be read 372 00:27:05,200 --> 00:27:09,034 - because of an attempt by No.10 to censor it. - You sure of this? 373 00:27:09,200 --> 00:27:13,193 I am sure that's what the press officer's explanation will be 374 00:27:13,360 --> 00:27:17,831 when his case for wrongful dismissal comes up before the industrial tribunal. 375 00:27:18,000 --> 00:27:22,391 - Wrongful dismissal? - He'll argue he was following an implied order. 376 00:27:22,560 --> 00:27:27,031 - Carrying out his Secretary of State's wishes. - So I can't sack him. 377 00:27:27,200 --> 00:27:31,671 - Well, who can I sack? - Well, if you must sack somebody, 378 00:27:31,840 --> 00:27:36,470 the only candidate is the Energy Secretary who is responsible for his department. 379 00:27:36,640 --> 00:27:41,191 I can't do that. I lost one minister last week. I can't sack another this week. 380 00:27:41,360 --> 00:27:46,753 Quite, Prime Minister. To lose one Cabinet minister may be regarded as a misfortune. 381 00:27:46,920 --> 00:27:49,912 To lose both looks like carelessness. 382 00:27:53,360 --> 00:27:56,158 Thank you, Bernard. Furthermore, Prime Minister, 383 00:27:56,320 --> 00:28:02,634 as the Energy Secretary did not do the leaking, he might sue for wrongful dismissal as well. 384 00:28:02,800 --> 00:28:06,156 The press is clamouring for the result of this inquiry. 385 00:28:06,320 --> 00:28:10,393 Well, the press office... has drafted this statement. 386 00:28:13,200 --> 00:28:17,398 "Communications breakdown... misunderstanding... 387 00:28:17,560 --> 00:28:22,156 "...acted in good faith... will be dealt with by internal procedures." 388 00:28:22,320 --> 00:28:26,871 - This is a whitewash. - Not really. It shares out the blame equally. 389 00:28:27,040 --> 00:28:29,429 More of a grey wash. 390 00:28:30,520 --> 00:28:34,513 Still looks like I tried to suppress that chapter. What am I to do? 391 00:28:34,680 --> 00:28:39,310 Perhaps we should send the story out, but smother it. 392 00:28:40,320 --> 00:28:43,278 Smother it? You mean... 393 00:28:43,440 --> 00:28:47,479 Oh, Prime Minister, I've been meaning to tell you. 394 00:28:47,640 --> 00:28:52,634 There's some very worrying information on the Foreign Office files about espionage 395 00:28:52,800 --> 00:28:56,349 in the Soviet embassy and trade delegation. 396 00:28:56,520 --> 00:29:00,877 - No? - Evidence against a lot of diplomats. 397 00:29:01,600 --> 00:29:03,511 How many? 398 00:29:03,680 --> 00:29:05,671 (BOTH) 76. 399 00:29:07,240 --> 00:29:10,630 You know, I think the time has come to be firm. 400 00:29:10,800 --> 00:29:14,190 - Absolutely. - The defence of the realm is at stake. 401 00:29:14,360 --> 00:29:19,354 - Precisely. - Expel them. And I want the press told today. 402 00:29:19,520 --> 00:29:21,988 (BOTH) At the same time... 403 00:29:22,160 --> 00:29:24,151 Yes, Prime Minister.