1 00:00:31,280 --> 00:00:33,886 There's been no breakthrough in the month-long negotiations 2 00:00:33,960 --> 00:00:36,884 to find a way out of Europe's financial crisis. 3 00:00:37,280 --> 00:00:41,046 Getting the French, Germans and British out of their economic mess 4 00:00:41,320 --> 00:00:43,448 has so far eluded all three governments, 5 00:00:43,640 --> 00:00:46,769 with the result that Greece, Ireland, Spain, Portugal and Italy 6 00:00:46,840 --> 00:00:49,047 are still economic disaster zones, 7 00:00:49,200 --> 00:00:51,089 teetering on the edge of bankruptcy. 8 00:00:51,160 --> 00:00:52,241 Over here. Over here. 9 00:00:52,480 --> 00:00:54,721 Reporter". When the prime minister emerged from the talks 10 00:00:54,800 --> 00:00:57,883 earlier this morning, he seemed surprisingly calm. 11 00:00:58,280 --> 00:01:00,089 Yet, he refused to speak to reporters. 12 00:01:00,160 --> 00:01:02,970 We understand that he is due to appear on the one o'clock news 13 00:01:03,280 --> 00:01:04,964 before going to chequers for the weekend. 14 00:01:07,280 --> 00:01:10,011 So, prime minister, the pound is falling, 15 00:01:10,240 --> 00:01:12,527 the ftse's dropping like a stone, 16 00:01:12,600 --> 00:01:14,648 inflation could be on the way up, 17 00:01:14,840 --> 00:01:16,729 your coalition is divided, 18 00:01:16,880 --> 00:01:18,928 and now the conference on the euro crisis 19 00:01:19,000 --> 00:01:20,126 looks like a dead end. 20 00:01:20,240 --> 00:01:21,890 It's all a bit of a disaster, isn't it? 21 00:01:22,160 --> 00:01:23,969 You know, I'm glad you asked me that. 22 00:01:26,680 --> 00:01:29,445 So, would you like to give us an answer? 23 00:01:29,520 --> 00:01:31,284 - Yes. - Yes, it looks like a disaster? 24 00:01:31,360 --> 00:01:33,727 No, no! It's not a disaster. 25 00:01:33,800 --> 00:01:35,404 And, yes, I'd like to answer the question. 26 00:01:35,520 --> 00:01:37,363 Please don't interrupt until after I've finished speaking. 27 00:01:38,640 --> 00:01:40,369 To you it may look like a disaster, 28 00:01:40,440 --> 00:01:42,249 but you don't know what's been going on 29 00:01:42,320 --> 00:01:43,685 inside Lancaster house. 30 00:01:44,080 --> 00:01:47,448 - No, that's why I'm asking about it. - No, no. 31 00:01:47,520 --> 00:01:49,887 You're asking if it's all a disaster, 32 00:01:50,000 --> 00:01:51,684 typically loaded question, 33 00:01:51,760 --> 00:01:53,762 completely prejudicial. 34 00:01:53,960 --> 00:01:58,010 Have you ever considered asking something open-minded, like, 35 00:01:58,680 --> 00:02:00,364 "how are negotiations going?" 36 00:02:00,560 --> 00:02:02,483 Fine. How are negotiations going? 37 00:02:02,720 --> 00:02:04,131 Well, obviously, I can't tell you that. 38 00:02:04,200 --> 00:02:07,727 - They're... they're confidential. - But... 39 00:02:08,120 --> 00:02:10,726 I can tell you there has been much progress. 40 00:02:11,000 --> 00:02:13,287 A Frank exchange of views 41 00:02:13,560 --> 00:02:17,360 and we all have an increasingly clear understanding of the situation. 42 00:02:17,640 --> 00:02:20,405 Like the crew of the Titanic when they hit the iceberg? 43 00:02:21,000 --> 00:02:25,767 No! There's a great deal of good will and each country wants an agreement. 44 00:02:25,920 --> 00:02:28,048 But each country wants a different agreement! 45 00:02:28,240 --> 00:02:32,290 If we all wanted the same thing, we wouldn't be here negotiating! 46 00:02:33,440 --> 00:02:35,363 There'd be no need to negotiate. 47 00:02:35,480 --> 00:02:37,721 No, the fact of the matter is, 48 00:02:38,000 --> 00:02:40,162 we all have to pull together, 49 00:02:40,360 --> 00:02:41,805 tighten our belts. 50 00:02:41,920 --> 00:02:44,446 We need some give and take. 51 00:02:44,720 --> 00:02:47,326 Because, if, at the end of the day, 52 00:02:47,480 --> 00:02:50,609 we all want a better 'tomorrow... 53 00:02:51,480 --> 00:02:52,925 We're all in the same boat. 54 00:02:53,000 --> 00:02:54,126 The ss Titanic! 55 00:02:55,120 --> 00:02:57,168 No, not the Titanic. 56 00:03:01,640 --> 00:03:02,687 Nothing else to ask? 57 00:03:02,880 --> 00:03:05,406 I was waiting to be sure I wasn't interrupting. 58 00:03:06,920 --> 00:03:10,322 Today is Friday. Monday is the last day of this economic summit. 59 00:03:10,400 --> 00:03:12,368 Is there any likelihood of an agreement by then? 60 00:03:12,560 --> 00:03:15,325 The treaty of Rome wasn't built in a day, you know! 61 00:03:19,320 --> 00:03:22,642 At the very least, we'll have done some invaluable ground work 62 00:03:22,720 --> 00:03:23,881 for the next conference. 63 00:03:24,120 --> 00:03:25,770 You said that after the last conference. 64 00:03:25,880 --> 00:03:31,842 I did. And do you know I believe that consistency is important. 65 00:03:32,560 --> 00:03:34,483 - Thank you, prime minister. - Thank you. 66 00:03:35,040 --> 00:03:37,805 And the main headline again, there is still no sign of agreement 67 00:03:37,920 --> 00:03:39,604 at the Lancaster house conference. 68 00:03:39,840 --> 00:03:42,525 The prime minister has denied that the European union 69 00:03:42,600 --> 00:03:44,284 is sailing on the Titanic. 70 00:03:44,560 --> 00:03:45,607 And now, the weather. 71 00:03:46,080 --> 00:03:48,287 It's a gloomy forecast for the next couple of days, 72 00:03:48,560 --> 00:03:50,847 with further severe thunderstorms, I'm afraid, 73 00:03:50,920 --> 00:03:52,809 heading in towards London and the home counties... 74 00:03:53,080 --> 00:03:55,242 Why did you allow him to give that interview? 75 00:03:55,360 --> 00:03:56,885 I couldn't stop him, sir Humphrey. 76 00:03:57,520 --> 00:03:59,045 He's so desperate for attention. 77 00:04:01,200 --> 00:04:02,486 Everything's so awful. 78 00:04:02,560 --> 00:04:04,244 What is awful, Bernard? 79 00:04:04,320 --> 00:04:05,810 All these jobs going! 80 00:04:06,240 --> 00:04:09,881 Interest rates, repossessions, fear of inflation. 81 00:04:10,240 --> 00:04:12,607 Oh, yes! Terrible! 82 00:04:15,000 --> 00:04:16,968 You don't sound terribly worried, sir Humphrey. 83 00:04:17,040 --> 00:04:19,771 Bernard, I am not being sacked, repossessed or inflated. 84 00:04:21,440 --> 00:04:23,488 Nor is the prime minister, but he's worried stiff. 85 00:04:23,640 --> 00:04:24,971 And so he should be. 86 00:04:25,040 --> 00:04:27,884 - You don't sympathise with him? - Bernard, that's the deal. 87 00:04:28,000 --> 00:04:30,207 That's how prime ministers' careers go. 88 00:04:30,600 --> 00:04:34,161 They get to be on the front page every day for years, which they love. 89 00:04:34,680 --> 00:04:36,762 They travel the long path, Bernard. 90 00:04:37,080 --> 00:04:40,482 From euphoric triumph to ignominious failure. 91 00:04:40,880 --> 00:04:43,850 And then they make way for the next saviour of the nation. 92 00:04:44,440 --> 00:04:45,680 It's called democracy. 93 00:04:47,560 --> 00:04:50,131 It beats me why anyone would want to be prime minister. 94 00:04:50,240 --> 00:04:53,164 It's the only top job that requires no previous experience. 95 00:04:56,120 --> 00:04:59,442 No training, no qualifications and limited intelligence. 96 00:05:01,200 --> 00:05:04,170 Sir Humphrey, you do believe in democracy, don't you? 97 00:05:04,440 --> 00:05:05,601 Do I, Bernard? 98 00:05:06,760 --> 00:05:07,921 Well, actually, no. 99 00:05:08,960 --> 00:05:10,450 Well, not as most people understand it. 100 00:05:10,520 --> 00:05:12,409 You see, Bernard, democracy should not be 101 00:05:12,480 --> 00:05:14,369 about executing the will of the people. 102 00:05:14,560 --> 00:05:16,050 No, it should be the process 103 00:05:16,120 --> 00:05:18,487 whereby we secure the consent of the people 104 00:05:18,600 --> 00:05:21,809 to the policies of those qualified to decide on their behalf. 105 00:05:23,320 --> 00:05:25,448 - Like who? - Like us, Bernard! 106 00:05:26,680 --> 00:05:28,682 Well, I believe in democracy, sir Humphrey. 107 00:05:29,040 --> 00:05:30,405 It does you credit. 108 00:05:32,200 --> 00:05:36,046 And if all the voters were as informed and as intelligent as, 109 00:05:36,120 --> 00:05:38,521 well, say me or even you, Bernard, 110 00:05:38,720 --> 00:05:41,849 then, yes, that could possibly work, but it's hardly realistic. 111 00:05:42,080 --> 00:05:44,048 Well, obviously, we have to stop the government 112 00:05:44,120 --> 00:05:45,690 from making stupid mistakes. 113 00:05:46,960 --> 00:05:48,325 But I am there to help him. 114 00:05:48,600 --> 00:05:51,888 Bernard! We have a leadership crisis in this country 115 00:05:52,160 --> 00:05:54,606 and if the government can't or won't exercise it, 116 00:05:54,840 --> 00:05:56,126 it falls to us, 117 00:05:56,320 --> 00:05:57,685 whether we want it or not. 118 00:05:57,800 --> 00:06:00,406 I know! Power abhors a vacuum. 119 00:06:00,560 --> 00:06:02,562 And we are currently led by one. 120 00:06:05,760 --> 00:06:09,082 And it is made even worse because he has no overall majority. 121 00:06:09,400 --> 00:06:10,970 A hung parliament's a bad thing? 122 00:06:11,120 --> 00:06:13,441 Yes, Bernard. Hanging's too good for them. 123 00:06:14,840 --> 00:06:17,844 Well, at least the coalition agreement that they came up with seems reasonable. 124 00:06:18,080 --> 00:06:19,684 Well, of course it is, Bernard, I wrote it for them. 125 00:06:21,360 --> 00:06:23,840 If the prime minister wants to do something silly, 126 00:06:23,920 --> 00:06:26,844 we can make sure that his coalition partners stop him. 127 00:06:27,200 --> 00:06:29,123 And we should exercise power, Bernard, 128 00:06:29,200 --> 00:06:31,885 because we have nothing to gain or lose personally. 129 00:06:32,160 --> 00:06:35,323 We have respectable salaries, honours, an office, a chauffeur... 130 00:06:35,520 --> 00:06:36,931 Well, I haven't got a chauffeur! 131 00:06:37,040 --> 00:06:38,724 You will, Bernard, when you grow up. 132 00:06:40,920 --> 00:06:44,208 We end up with an index-linked pension, a bank directorship, 133 00:06:44,560 --> 00:06:48,690 couple of nicely remunerated quangos and a cottage in the dordogne. 134 00:06:49,200 --> 00:06:51,441 So, we can be even-handed in our judgements 135 00:06:51,640 --> 00:06:53,608 and make them entirely in the public interest. 136 00:06:56,040 --> 00:06:58,042 That interview went pretty well, didn't it? 137 00:07:00,440 --> 00:07:01,726 Didn't you think so? 138 00:07:03,080 --> 00:07:04,241 You didn't think so? 139 00:07:06,520 --> 00:07:08,363 Well, it wasn't that bad, was it? 140 00:07:09,760 --> 00:07:10,921 Was it? 141 00:07:11,800 --> 00:07:13,165 You thought it was that bad. 142 00:07:13,240 --> 00:07:14,969 Oh, my God! 143 00:07:15,520 --> 00:07:16,931 Why did you give that interview? 144 00:07:17,160 --> 00:07:19,162 Somebody has to give a positive impression. 145 00:07:19,440 --> 00:07:21,488 Honestly, Jim, I am head of your policy unit. 146 00:07:21,560 --> 00:07:23,881 I wish you'd talk to me before revealing to the nation 147 00:07:23,960 --> 00:07:25,928 just how awful everything is. 148 00:07:26,680 --> 00:07:28,603 Will you be able to get some sort of agreement? 149 00:07:28,680 --> 00:07:29,727 Doesn't look like it. 150 00:07:30,160 --> 00:07:32,891 Dealing with the Europeans is like herding cats! 151 00:07:33,480 --> 00:07:35,562 Being president of Europe isn't enough. 152 00:07:36,080 --> 00:07:38,651 Europe is an empire, it needs an emperor! 153 00:07:39,160 --> 00:07:40,286 You mean you? 154 00:07:40,360 --> 00:07:41,441 Well, of course, it's not... 155 00:07:41,520 --> 00:07:43,249 Yeah, please don't say that to the BBC. 156 00:07:43,760 --> 00:07:45,888 No. No, I'll try not to. 157 00:07:46,360 --> 00:07:48,966 We cannot govern Europe without joining the euro. 158 00:07:49,040 --> 00:07:50,166 Why not? 159 00:07:50,400 --> 00:07:52,721 We governed India without joining the rupee. 160 00:07:55,920 --> 00:07:57,729 So, what's the agenda for this weekend? 161 00:07:57,800 --> 00:08:01,850 Oh! Find a way of ending this conference without looking like a complete idiot. 162 00:08:03,040 --> 00:08:05,407 And why haven't you invited the foreign secretary to chequers? 163 00:08:05,480 --> 00:08:06,686 The foreign secretary? 164 00:08:07,040 --> 00:08:08,405 Well, he does have an interest. 165 00:08:08,600 --> 00:08:11,171 His only interest is in pushing me overboard 166 00:08:11,240 --> 00:08:12,480 and taking my job. 167 00:08:12,640 --> 00:08:14,688 And you haven't invited the chancellor either. 168 00:08:15,200 --> 00:08:18,283 No. Sir Humphrey advised me not to ask either of them, actually. 169 00:08:18,600 --> 00:08:21,809 - Why not? - He wants a quiet weekend, he says. 170 00:08:22,360 --> 00:08:23,805 Just the home team. 171 00:08:24,200 --> 00:08:26,362 You, me, him and Bernard. 172 00:08:26,560 --> 00:08:28,050 Hmm. It's so unlike him. 173 00:08:29,200 --> 00:08:30,440 He's up to something. 174 00:08:31,000 --> 00:08:32,081 I'll find out. 175 00:08:32,680 --> 00:08:36,366 And we'll try to come up with some sort of final communiqué. 176 00:08:36,680 --> 00:08:37,920 That'll make it a success? 177 00:08:38,000 --> 00:08:41,163 Claire! Dealing with Europe isn't about achieving success. 178 00:08:41,240 --> 00:08:43,129 It's about concealing failure. 179 00:08:49,320 --> 00:08:50,367 Yes. 180 00:08:52,400 --> 00:08:53,447 The prime minister's arrived. 181 00:08:53,520 --> 00:08:55,329 - How does he sound? - Irritable. 182 00:08:56,120 --> 00:08:58,964 Well, things may not seem so bad soon, when we tell the prime minister 183 00:08:59,040 --> 00:09:00,565 about kumranistan. 184 00:09:00,880 --> 00:09:03,087 "European central bank to the rescue." 185 00:09:03,160 --> 00:09:06,960 Bernard, do not mention the ecb to the prime minister. 186 00:09:07,160 --> 00:09:08,924 - No, sir Humphrey. - And whatever you do, 187 00:09:09,040 --> 00:09:11,646 don't let him know that that kumranistan plan 188 00:09:11,840 --> 00:09:13,842 is dependent on our joining the euro. 189 00:09:14,080 --> 00:09:16,321 But it does say so in the ecb proposal. 190 00:09:16,400 --> 00:09:18,050 Yes, but not until page 67. 191 00:09:19,120 --> 00:09:21,043 And he never gets beyond page three of anything. 192 00:09:23,160 --> 00:09:25,003 And then he jumps to the last paragraph. 193 00:09:25,480 --> 00:09:27,767 But conceal this report, just in case. 194 00:09:28,680 --> 00:09:30,205 Vehicle licensing centre, swansea. 195 00:09:30,280 --> 00:09:31,327 Yes. 196 00:09:34,560 --> 00:09:36,722 Bottom of the fifth box. 197 00:09:36,800 --> 00:09:37,881 Fifth box. 198 00:09:40,320 --> 00:09:41,367 He'll never find it. 199 00:09:41,840 --> 00:09:42,966 This had better work, Bernard. 200 00:09:43,200 --> 00:09:44,884 You know his views on Europe. 201 00:09:45,040 --> 00:09:48,169 Well, I know he's afraid brussels wants to take away most of his powers. 202 00:09:48,400 --> 00:09:49,526 They already have. 203 00:09:50,560 --> 00:09:51,721 And so they should. 204 00:09:52,320 --> 00:09:55,051 Now, all we need him to do is to preside at tonight's dinner. 205 00:09:55,360 --> 00:09:59,445 Pretend he's read this kumranistan plan and leave the rest to us. 206 00:09:59,840 --> 00:10:01,205 Sorry I'm late. 207 00:10:01,680 --> 00:10:04,081 It's been a terrible day. 208 00:10:04,240 --> 00:10:05,685 Any particular reason? 209 00:10:06,280 --> 00:10:08,328 - You've read about the cabinet split? - Yes. 210 00:10:08,600 --> 00:10:10,125 And you have seen what has happened to the ftse? 211 00:10:10,200 --> 00:10:11,247 - Yes. - And the pound? 212 00:10:11,320 --> 00:10:13,322 - Yes. - And the inflation forecast? 213 00:10:13,400 --> 00:10:15,402 - Yes. - And the rising unemployment figures? 214 00:10:15,480 --> 00:10:16,561 Yes. 215 00:10:16,640 --> 00:10:18,847 So how many particular reasons do you want? 216 00:10:18,920 --> 00:10:19,921 Well... 217 00:10:20,000 --> 00:10:22,571 And now this Lancaster house conference 218 00:10:22,640 --> 00:10:24,130 is turning into a catastrophe! 219 00:10:24,560 --> 00:10:26,005 Well, it was your idea to convene it. 220 00:10:26,200 --> 00:10:29,409 If you become president of Europe in the middle of the biggest 221 00:10:29,480 --> 00:10:32,006 financial crisis for 80 years... 222 00:10:32,080 --> 00:10:35,527 Prime minister, with respect, there is no such title as president of Europe. 223 00:10:35,880 --> 00:10:38,531 Oh, you are so pedantic, Bernard! 224 00:10:40,200 --> 00:10:42,726 All right, what is my official title then? 225 00:10:42,800 --> 00:10:44,165 President of the European council? 226 00:10:44,360 --> 00:10:47,204 Uh, no, prime minister, the presidency of the European council 227 00:10:47,280 --> 00:10:48,930 went to the Belgian prime minister. 228 00:10:49,200 --> 00:10:51,043 Who is completely unknown. 229 00:10:51,280 --> 00:10:52,884 Well, obviously. He's Belgian. 230 00:10:54,480 --> 00:10:56,130 And not elected. 231 00:10:56,640 --> 00:10:58,449 Appointed in secret. 232 00:10:58,760 --> 00:11:01,127 Of course, you wouldn't have a problem with that, would you, Humphrey? 233 00:11:01,200 --> 00:11:03,487 Oh, prime minister, you do me an injustice. 234 00:11:03,760 --> 00:11:07,606 I'm all in favour of elections, provided the right people do the voting. 235 00:11:08,760 --> 00:11:10,000 I don't understand this! 236 00:11:10,080 --> 00:11:12,208 I'm sure I'm President of the council. 237 00:11:12,280 --> 00:11:14,169 I remember being in the chair. 238 00:11:14,480 --> 00:11:16,323 Well, it is a little confusing, prime minister. 239 00:11:16,400 --> 00:11:18,448 You see, we, the British, 240 00:11:18,520 --> 00:11:21,490 have the presidency of the council of the European union. 241 00:11:21,560 --> 00:11:22,641 That's what I said! 242 00:11:22,720 --> 00:11:26,008 Uh, no. The European council and the council of the European union 243 00:11:26,080 --> 00:11:27,127 are not the same thing. 244 00:11:28,120 --> 00:11:31,283 The President of the European council is there for 30 months 245 00:11:31,400 --> 00:11:34,006 and is in charge of, well, preparing the agenda 246 00:11:34,080 --> 00:11:36,481 and chairing the meetings of the European council. 247 00:11:36,800 --> 00:11:40,486 Whereas the presidency of the council of the European union 248 00:11:40,640 --> 00:11:43,166 is held for six months each by rotating states 249 00:11:43,240 --> 00:11:45,846 and not by individual leaders and not by you. 250 00:11:48,720 --> 00:11:50,722 So which of them really runs Europe? 251 00:11:50,800 --> 00:11:51,881 Oh, I see! 252 00:11:51,960 --> 00:11:53,041 Neither. 253 00:11:54,160 --> 00:11:56,766 Uh, prime minister, let me simplify it for you. 254 00:11:57,240 --> 00:12:01,165 The European union is run on an intricate and sophisticated system 255 00:12:01,320 --> 00:12:03,482 based on an hierarchical structure 256 00:12:03,680 --> 00:12:07,162 of interlocking and overlapping jurisdictions 257 00:12:07,480 --> 00:12:11,326 designed to separate the powers while reinforcing the authority 258 00:12:11,440 --> 00:12:13,602 of the departments, institutions and agencies 259 00:12:13,680 --> 00:12:17,480 who collectively and separately control and supervise 260 00:12:17,560 --> 00:12:21,042 the diverse activities of the union and its associated organisations. 261 00:12:23,120 --> 00:12:27,409 So, Europe is actually run by the president 262 00:12:27,600 --> 00:12:31,321 of the European commission who is akin to the prime minister of Europe 263 00:12:31,480 --> 00:12:35,007 because he is elected and he heads a cabinet government. 264 00:12:35,680 --> 00:12:39,127 But the President of the council, 265 00:12:39,200 --> 00:12:41,567 he is, in fact, appointed, not elected. 266 00:12:41,640 --> 00:12:44,120 And he presides over the meetings of that council, 267 00:12:44,200 --> 00:12:45,486 which is not the cabinet. 268 00:12:47,040 --> 00:12:50,487 And then, prime minister, there is the council of the European union. 269 00:12:53,040 --> 00:12:56,010 Now, britain currently has that presidency. 270 00:12:57,440 --> 00:13:00,444 And, while you are the rotating president, 271 00:13:01,240 --> 00:13:03,402 the presidency itself is not yours personally. 272 00:13:04,640 --> 00:13:05,971 That simplifies it? 273 00:13:06,920 --> 00:13:08,922 Prime minister, what it all boils down to, 274 00:13:09,000 --> 00:13:10,161 as far as you're concerned, 275 00:13:10,440 --> 00:13:13,967 is the difference between years of being head of an empire 276 00:13:14,080 --> 00:13:16,447 of nearly 500 million people 277 00:13:16,640 --> 00:13:18,927 and chairing the council of ministers for six months. 278 00:13:19,040 --> 00:13:21,441 The fact of the matter is, I am the president, 279 00:13:21,520 --> 00:13:23,170 or I have the presidency. 280 00:13:23,240 --> 00:13:25,163 I don't give a hoot what we call it. 281 00:13:25,560 --> 00:13:29,201 And I convened the conference on this dreadful recession 282 00:13:29,280 --> 00:13:31,760 and the resulting euro crisis. 283 00:13:31,960 --> 00:13:33,291 I had to do something. 284 00:13:33,400 --> 00:13:36,244 And the conference was something, so you did it. Well done. 285 00:13:38,880 --> 00:13:43,681 But now it's falling apart, which might just about finish me. 286 00:13:43,880 --> 00:13:46,804 Well, prime minister, it might not be falling apart. 287 00:13:47,240 --> 00:13:50,449 Uh, did you see my interview on TV this lunchtime? 288 00:13:50,560 --> 00:13:52,483 - Yes, prime minister. - How was it? 289 00:13:55,360 --> 00:13:56,805 What was wrong with it? 290 00:13:56,920 --> 00:13:59,844 "Ours not to reason why, ours but to do and die." 291 00:14:01,080 --> 00:14:03,447 You just said the conference may not be falling apart. 292 00:14:03,520 --> 00:14:06,046 Don't you know what's going on? Don't you keep up? 293 00:14:06,440 --> 00:14:08,647 Haven't you been reading the conference reports? 294 00:14:08,960 --> 00:14:10,689 I have. Have you? 295 00:14:12,120 --> 00:14:13,246 Not my fault. 296 00:14:14,800 --> 00:14:16,484 The spadework wasn't done properly. 297 00:14:16,720 --> 00:14:19,929 The foreign office and the treasury let me down, badly. 298 00:14:20,240 --> 00:14:22,527 I think the foreign secretary and the chancellor 299 00:14:22,600 --> 00:14:24,250 are plotting to get rid of me already. 300 00:14:24,440 --> 00:14:26,807 That's why I suggested not inviting them this weekend. 301 00:14:27,000 --> 00:14:31,085 But everyone knows you have to agree the final bulletin 302 00:14:31,360 --> 00:14:33,806 before the conference begins. 303 00:14:34,280 --> 00:14:36,851 But instead of having everything nailed down 304 00:14:36,920 --> 00:14:39,844 before they all convened, they left it to chance. 305 00:14:39,920 --> 00:14:40,967 Useless! 306 00:14:44,040 --> 00:14:46,281 Oh, oh, yes, yes. Very good. 307 00:14:48,200 --> 00:14:49,247 What? 308 00:14:49,600 --> 00:14:52,570 "For those in misery, perhaps better things will follow." 309 00:14:52,920 --> 00:14:54,445 Well said, Bernard. 310 00:14:55,560 --> 00:14:57,927 I didn't actually say that, that was Virgil. 311 00:14:58,000 --> 00:14:59,126 Yes, I know that, Bernard. 312 00:14:59,840 --> 00:15:02,366 It was completely predictable. 313 00:15:02,880 --> 00:15:05,645 The krauts don't want a stimulus plan. 314 00:15:06,160 --> 00:15:08,162 They're terrified of runaway inflation. 315 00:15:08,240 --> 00:15:10,083 That's what destroyed the weimar Republic 316 00:15:10,160 --> 00:15:11,286 and brought them Hitler. 317 00:15:12,000 --> 00:15:13,843 The wops and the dagos 318 00:15:14,560 --> 00:15:17,484 are up to their armpits in debt already. 319 00:15:17,800 --> 00:15:21,885 The frogs only want it if France gets all the benefits. 320 00:15:21,960 --> 00:15:24,167 Prime minister, I really think you should stop using 321 00:15:24,240 --> 00:15:27,164 these vintage pejorative epithets to describe our allies. 322 00:15:28,760 --> 00:15:30,364 They might slip out in public sometime. 323 00:15:30,480 --> 00:15:32,130 Quite right, Bernard. Thank you. 324 00:15:32,720 --> 00:15:35,451 And the micks and the polacks 325 00:15:35,520 --> 00:15:38,000 aren't getting the subsidies they were promised, 326 00:15:38,080 --> 00:15:40,082 which they regard as a betrayal. 327 00:15:40,760 --> 00:15:44,606 So it is time for me to get hands-on and give some leadership. 328 00:15:44,840 --> 00:15:45,921 Oh, good. 329 00:15:46,000 --> 00:15:47,126 So, 330 00:15:47,480 --> 00:15:48,561 tell me what I should do. 331 00:15:48,680 --> 00:15:49,727 Ah! 332 00:15:50,840 --> 00:15:53,844 Now, that's just the kind of leadership we need. 333 00:15:53,920 --> 00:15:56,241 Oh! Thank you, Humphrey. 334 00:15:56,560 --> 00:15:59,370 And, prime minister, we have good news for you. 335 00:15:59,680 --> 00:16:02,411 Late last night, we had a breakthrough at Lancaster house. 336 00:16:02,480 --> 00:16:04,244 A new player has appeared on the scene. 337 00:16:04,320 --> 00:16:06,209 The Americans? Are they coming after all... 338 00:16:06,480 --> 00:16:09,689 Ah, no, prime minister, their position is immutable. 339 00:16:09,760 --> 00:16:13,287 They will not come to this conference because you won't let them chair it. 340 00:16:13,360 --> 00:16:17,046 I can't let them chair a European conference, Humphrey. 341 00:16:17,480 --> 00:16:18,561 Look at the map! 342 00:16:22,080 --> 00:16:25,243 Well, it could become an international conference, prime minister. 343 00:16:25,400 --> 00:16:28,609 That could save the whole European financial system 344 00:16:28,680 --> 00:16:29,886 from melting down again. 345 00:16:29,960 --> 00:16:33,203 Oh, don't be silly, Humphrey. I'd lose face. 346 00:16:33,720 --> 00:16:35,165 Oh, yes, of course. Silly me. 347 00:16:36,040 --> 00:16:38,646 Prime minister, the kumranistanis have joined us. 348 00:16:39,040 --> 00:16:40,087 Good! 349 00:16:41,480 --> 00:16:42,527 Have I heard of them? 350 00:16:43,400 --> 00:16:45,607 Prime minister, they have oil. 351 00:16:46,040 --> 00:16:50,921 Yes, massive new reserves of oil have been found in kumranistan. 352 00:16:51,000 --> 00:16:56,450 Now, they're offering a possible $10 trillion loan to Europe 353 00:16:56,560 --> 00:16:58,164 secured against future purchases. 354 00:16:58,440 --> 00:17:00,090 - But that could solve everything. - Yes. 355 00:17:00,280 --> 00:17:01,805 - Save the conference. - Yes. 356 00:17:01,880 --> 00:17:03,848 - Save Europe, in fact. - Yes! 357 00:17:04,040 --> 00:17:06,646 "Triumph for the prime minister." 358 00:17:08,040 --> 00:17:10,805 "Victory for the president of Europe." 359 00:17:10,880 --> 00:17:11,927 Uh, prime minister, you are not... 360 00:17:12,000 --> 00:17:14,765 "Victory for the president of Europe", Humphrey. 361 00:17:15,080 --> 00:17:16,491 Might even save your job. 362 00:17:16,600 --> 00:17:19,080 My job is perfectly safe. 363 00:17:19,200 --> 00:17:21,680 Other people have survived with small majorities. 364 00:17:21,840 --> 00:17:25,481 Wilson had a majority of four in 1964 365 00:17:25,560 --> 00:17:27,244 and he lasted six years. 366 00:17:27,480 --> 00:17:29,482 But he did have to fight a second election pretty soon 367 00:17:29,560 --> 00:17:30,925 to get a working majority. 368 00:17:31,040 --> 00:17:32,280 And Wilson had hair. 369 00:17:37,640 --> 00:17:39,210 What are you saying, Bernard? 370 00:17:39,520 --> 00:17:41,522 Well, it's just that no prime minister 371 00:17:41,600 --> 00:17:44,251 or us president has been elected without a full head of hair 372 00:17:44,320 --> 00:17:46,766 since eisenhower and Churchill in the 1950s. 373 00:17:51,280 --> 00:17:53,931 So I'm saying you did magnificently well 374 00:17:54,000 --> 00:17:56,207 to cobble together a majority of two. 375 00:17:57,040 --> 00:17:59,725 I had hair when I was first elected. 376 00:18:00,800 --> 00:18:04,168 I lost my hair in the service of my country. 377 00:18:04,880 --> 00:18:07,121 Indeed you did, prime minister. 378 00:18:07,400 --> 00:18:08,447 Indeed. 379 00:18:08,520 --> 00:18:09,567 Uh, prime minister, 380 00:18:09,640 --> 00:18:13,440 this kumranistan deal could solve all your problems. 381 00:18:13,520 --> 00:18:14,601 Fine, where do I sign? 382 00:18:15,040 --> 00:18:16,644 No. We're not quite there yet. 383 00:18:16,720 --> 00:18:18,688 Uh, they do want something in exchange. 384 00:18:18,960 --> 00:18:20,849 - You know where kumranistan is? - Yes. 385 00:18:23,040 --> 00:18:24,530 Well, sort of. 386 00:18:25,120 --> 00:18:26,804 You know, it's over there. 387 00:18:28,160 --> 00:18:30,083 It lies in turkistan, 388 00:18:30,440 --> 00:18:34,331 to the north of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Afghanistan. 389 00:18:34,600 --> 00:18:37,080 - Here, in fact. - As I said, exactly. 390 00:18:37,680 --> 00:18:40,604 Now, they had been planning to take their oil to Europe 391 00:18:40,680 --> 00:18:41,841 through the Soviet pipeline... 392 00:18:42,120 --> 00:18:45,602 They're not Soviets any more, Humphrey, they're Russians. 393 00:18:45,680 --> 00:18:48,251 They haven't been Soviets for over 20 years. 394 00:18:48,320 --> 00:18:50,800 They still are in spirit and always will be. 395 00:18:51,440 --> 00:18:54,046 The, urn, Russians want a pretty huge payment. 396 00:18:54,120 --> 00:18:56,487 Which kumranistan does not want to pay 397 00:18:56,560 --> 00:19:00,406 since the Soviets will have their hands on the pipeline tap. 398 00:19:00,520 --> 00:19:04,491 So, with a little prompting from us, the kumranistanis came up with a plan b. 399 00:19:04,800 --> 00:19:07,485 A pipeline through Turkey, Greece and Southern Europe, 400 00:19:07,800 --> 00:19:09,325 avoiding Russia altogether. 401 00:19:09,560 --> 00:19:11,961 What they need now is European agreement. 402 00:19:12,240 --> 00:19:15,881 And that's what they're prepared to lend us $10 trillion for. 403 00:19:16,040 --> 00:19:17,087 Why? 404 00:19:17,160 --> 00:19:21,210 They want the guarantee of future oil purchases by everyone in the eu. 405 00:19:22,040 --> 00:19:23,246 No, I don't get it. 406 00:19:23,720 --> 00:19:25,722 It's awfully simple, prime minister. 407 00:19:26,480 --> 00:19:27,527 Urn... 408 00:19:27,600 --> 00:19:31,844 Kumranistan will lend Europe the money to buy kumranistan's oil. 409 00:19:32,080 --> 00:19:35,050 And Europe borrows another 10 trillion more debt? 410 00:19:35,320 --> 00:19:37,800 Oh, the debt is not a problem. It doesn't have to be repaid for years. 411 00:19:38,240 --> 00:19:41,369 See, we get the money now, interest-free, 412 00:19:41,560 --> 00:19:43,085 but we repay it in the future, 413 00:19:43,200 --> 00:19:45,601 when we buy the oil that we will need anyway. 414 00:19:45,680 --> 00:19:47,011 So, how do they make their money? 415 00:19:47,200 --> 00:19:49,202 Ah, we will have to pay a premium... 416 00:19:49,320 --> 00:19:52,164 - Ah! - But not for many years to come, 417 00:19:52,400 --> 00:19:54,687 when there will be a different government. 418 00:19:58,200 --> 00:19:59,611 Oh, that's all right then. 419 00:20:01,600 --> 00:20:03,489 Are all the Europeans on board? 420 00:20:03,560 --> 00:20:05,050 They are, prime minister. 421 00:20:05,120 --> 00:20:07,646 And the problems are what we've been negotiating 422 00:20:07,880 --> 00:20:10,201 as you will have seen in your red boxes? 423 00:20:10,280 --> 00:20:12,408 Yes. But remind me. 424 00:20:13,480 --> 00:20:17,041 Well, as you'll doubtless remember, the turks refused to cooperate 425 00:20:17,120 --> 00:20:19,521 unless they were admitted to the European union. 426 00:20:19,600 --> 00:20:21,011 Now, I see their point. 427 00:20:21,280 --> 00:20:23,726 I've always had a soft spot for Johnny turk. 428 00:20:23,800 --> 00:20:26,963 Johnny turk! You're on first name terms, then? 429 00:20:28,400 --> 00:20:30,767 Oh! 430 00:20:32,040 --> 00:20:33,883 Yes, that's very droll, prime minister. 431 00:20:34,840 --> 00:20:36,808 Turkey is an important ally. 432 00:20:36,880 --> 00:20:40,407 They are the only Muslim country with a secular democracy, prime minister. 433 00:20:40,480 --> 00:20:42,244 - We do need... - Johnny turk! 434 00:20:42,320 --> 00:20:43,560 Yes. 435 00:20:43,920 --> 00:20:45,490 Anyway, everything is agreed. 436 00:20:46,800 --> 00:20:49,406 Everyone gets a share in the construction. 437 00:20:50,320 --> 00:20:51,367 Ah! 438 00:20:51,440 --> 00:20:52,566 Here's the route. 439 00:21:02,280 --> 00:21:04,089 Well, that looks pretty straightforward. 440 00:21:06,560 --> 00:21:07,846 - We're saved! - Yes. 441 00:21:08,600 --> 00:21:10,602 But why didn't I know about all this? 442 00:21:10,840 --> 00:21:13,047 - It's top secret. - Oh, good God, Humphrey. 443 00:21:13,120 --> 00:21:14,167 I'm the prime minister. 444 00:21:14,240 --> 00:21:15,651 Yes, I know. 445 00:21:17,240 --> 00:21:19,641 And what an excellent prime minister you are. 446 00:21:19,720 --> 00:21:21,290 But this had to be kept under wraps. 447 00:21:21,360 --> 00:21:22,725 If this had leaked, 448 00:21:22,800 --> 00:21:25,007 this week the money markets would have gone mad. 449 00:21:25,080 --> 00:21:26,127 I see. 450 00:21:26,560 --> 00:21:28,767 Well, is that everything I need to know? 451 00:21:28,840 --> 00:21:30,444 - Yes. - Well, there is one more thing. 452 00:21:30,520 --> 00:21:31,646 Bernard? 453 00:21:32,760 --> 00:21:36,128 A power group in kumranistan still want the Russian route. 454 00:21:36,360 --> 00:21:38,727 Oh, Bernard is absolutely right, prime minister. 455 00:21:38,800 --> 00:21:40,484 They didn't want to upset the Soviets. 456 00:21:40,720 --> 00:21:43,610 Well, it is understandable. They do share a border. 457 00:21:44,000 --> 00:21:46,446 But the kumranistan foreign secretary, 458 00:21:46,720 --> 00:21:50,645 he has come over here to offer us the deal, if we want it. 459 00:21:50,880 --> 00:21:52,041 Invite him to dinner! 460 00:21:52,240 --> 00:21:53,924 - Tonight! - I did, prime minister. 461 00:21:54,280 --> 00:21:56,248 That's why we're here. 462 00:21:57,880 --> 00:21:59,564 And he can do the deal, now? 463 00:21:59,640 --> 00:22:01,483 Yes, he has the authority, prime minister, 464 00:22:01,560 --> 00:22:03,801 but he needs careful handling. 465 00:22:04,200 --> 00:22:06,646 They are very sensitive about respect. 466 00:22:07,040 --> 00:22:10,442 You get an awful lot of respect for $10 trillion. 467 00:22:10,880 --> 00:22:12,644 He can have all mine for a start. 468 00:22:12,720 --> 00:22:15,371 Oh, excellent, prime minister. 469 00:22:17,840 --> 00:22:18,966 Bernard! 470 00:22:19,200 --> 00:22:20,247 Yes, prime minister? 471 00:22:20,320 --> 00:22:22,641 There's something you're not happy about, what is it? 472 00:22:22,840 --> 00:22:26,242 - Well, I'm not really sure i... - Oh, spit it out, Bernard. 473 00:22:26,440 --> 00:22:27,521 Well, I... 474 00:22:27,960 --> 00:22:29,041 Ah. 475 00:22:31,880 --> 00:22:33,006 What? 476 00:22:33,600 --> 00:22:35,329 "I fear the greeks, 477 00:22:35,560 --> 00:22:37,927 "especially when they bring gifts." 478 00:22:42,680 --> 00:22:45,081 Remember the trojan horse, prime minister. 479 00:22:51,440 --> 00:22:53,408 The greeks can't afford gifts! 480 00:23:01,480 --> 00:23:02,641 Ah, Claire, 481 00:23:02,880 --> 00:23:04,689 could you come to my study, please? 482 00:23:05,840 --> 00:23:07,001 Now. 483 00:23:18,360 --> 00:23:19,407 Yes, come in. 484 00:23:20,000 --> 00:23:21,525 Ah, Claire. 485 00:23:21,760 --> 00:23:24,730 There's something I don't know about this pipeline plan. 486 00:23:24,800 --> 00:23:26,325 Yes, I've just been finding out about it. 487 00:23:26,600 --> 00:23:28,125 What is it Humphrey hasn't been telling me? 488 00:23:28,280 --> 00:23:29,361 Well, how about the truth? 489 00:23:29,560 --> 00:23:31,722 - What have you found out? - I'll tell you when I'm sure. 490 00:23:31,800 --> 00:23:33,962 Maybe there's something in here. 491 00:23:35,120 --> 00:23:37,122 - Was that the bottom box? - Of course. 492 00:23:37,480 --> 00:23:39,642 - Yeah, try the bottom file. - Oh, yes! 493 00:23:42,800 --> 00:23:45,963 "Vehicle licensing centre, swansea." 494 00:23:47,000 --> 00:23:48,047 Yes! 495 00:23:50,400 --> 00:23:53,847 "Proposal for kumranistan oil pipeline." 496 00:23:54,480 --> 00:23:56,323 I think it could be about the pipeline mechanics. 497 00:23:56,400 --> 00:23:59,961 Oh, I don't care about the mechanics. I'm not an engineer. 498 00:24:00,160 --> 00:24:03,050 No, fiscal mechanics, Jim, financial engineering. 499 00:24:03,120 --> 00:24:05,521 Perhaps, Humphrey has arranged for the proposed loan 500 00:24:05,600 --> 00:24:07,284 to go through the European central bank 501 00:24:07,360 --> 00:24:08,441 and isn't mentioning it. 502 00:24:08,520 --> 00:24:09,601 Is that important? 503 00:24:14,960 --> 00:24:16,007 Yes. 504 00:24:16,600 --> 00:24:19,206 Yes, if so, if we want any of the loan, 505 00:24:19,480 --> 00:24:20,845 we'll have to join the euro. 506 00:24:21,040 --> 00:24:24,567 We can't join the euro, it would be a catastrophe! 507 00:24:25,080 --> 00:24:26,605 Look what's happened to Greece, 508 00:24:26,880 --> 00:24:29,406 Spain, Italy, Ireland, Portugal! 509 00:24:29,920 --> 00:24:32,491 Hand over control of interest rates, 510 00:24:32,640 --> 00:24:34,449 control of exchange rates, 511 00:24:34,640 --> 00:24:36,369 control of the money supply? 512 00:24:36,680 --> 00:24:39,650 What if I need to inflate to get re-elected? 513 00:24:42,120 --> 00:24:45,727 If the Germans are worried about rising prices, 514 00:24:45,880 --> 00:24:49,089 the ecb could deflate and I could get kicked out. 515 00:24:49,160 --> 00:24:51,527 Well, candidly, I not sure that that would bother sir Humphrey. 516 00:24:51,680 --> 00:24:53,250 Well, let's find out. 517 00:24:56,080 --> 00:24:58,890 Yes, Bernard, tell Humphrey I want to see him, please. 518 00:24:59,000 --> 00:25:00,843 No, no, 519 00:25:00,920 --> 00:25:04,129 anytime within the next 10 seconds will do. 520 00:25:05,680 --> 00:25:06,761 Yes? 521 00:25:07,160 --> 00:25:08,207 It's come through. 522 00:25:08,760 --> 00:25:10,250 From the controller general? 523 00:25:11,080 --> 00:25:14,721 Great. Could you print it all out and I'll come and get it right away. 524 00:25:17,520 --> 00:25:18,567 Oh. 525 00:25:18,920 --> 00:25:20,206 Ah, Humphrey. 526 00:25:26,640 --> 00:25:28,051 Prime minister? 527 00:25:28,280 --> 00:25:29,486 Do sit down! 528 00:25:31,400 --> 00:25:32,606 Tell me, 529 00:25:33,120 --> 00:25:36,567 what would a cabinet secretary do 530 00:25:36,640 --> 00:25:39,211 if he thought that a prime minister was set on a course 531 00:25:39,280 --> 00:25:41,851 that was seriously damaging to britain? 532 00:25:42,000 --> 00:25:43,365 Do you have a particular cabinet secretary 533 00:25:43,440 --> 00:25:44,487 or prime minister in mind? 534 00:25:44,640 --> 00:25:45,687 No. 535 00:25:45,760 --> 00:25:47,524 No, purely hypothetical. 536 00:25:47,800 --> 00:25:50,690 Well, the cabinet secretary would have to argue very strongly. 537 00:25:50,760 --> 00:25:53,604 But if he failed to persuade the prime minister... 538 00:25:53,680 --> 00:25:54,761 No, I mean, he'd have to. 539 00:25:55,040 --> 00:25:59,728 Ah! So what you're saying is, he'd have to go along with it or resign. 540 00:26:00,440 --> 00:26:01,487 Uh... 541 00:26:03,400 --> 00:26:04,640 Yes, I suppose I am. 542 00:26:04,840 --> 00:26:05,887 Right. 543 00:26:08,080 --> 00:26:12,244 This kumranistan loan is all good news, isn't it? 544 00:26:12,520 --> 00:26:14,010 Oh, tremendous news! 545 00:26:14,720 --> 00:26:19,567 There are no hidden snags, you know, terms and conditions, penalty clauses, 546 00:26:20,000 --> 00:26:22,367 - tough guarantee... - Oh, no, nothing like that. 547 00:26:22,440 --> 00:26:24,044 - Standard agreement. - Great! 548 00:26:24,440 --> 00:26:27,364 Just an ordinary treasury loan, as far as we're concerned. 549 00:26:27,680 --> 00:26:29,364 - In a sense, yes. - In a sense? 550 00:26:29,760 --> 00:26:31,762 Well, in due course, following agreed procedures, 551 00:26:31,840 --> 00:26:33,410 after certain formalities. 552 00:26:33,680 --> 00:26:35,967 But the money goes straight to the treasury. 553 00:26:36,160 --> 00:26:38,481 Oh, it goes to the treasury, of course. Yes. 554 00:26:38,560 --> 00:26:39,607 Straight 555 00:26:40,720 --> 00:26:41,801 to the treasury? 556 00:26:41,920 --> 00:26:43,490 Well, broadly speaking, yes, more or less. 557 00:26:43,560 --> 00:26:44,607 Broadly speaking? 558 00:26:44,680 --> 00:26:47,411 How would you describe it if you were narrowly speaking? 559 00:26:49,720 --> 00:26:52,724 Does it have to go through the European central bank? 560 00:26:52,880 --> 00:26:55,770 Prime minister, we get the money, that is what matters. 561 00:26:55,840 --> 00:26:57,444 Let me put this in another way. 562 00:26:57,520 --> 00:26:59,648 Will this loan be in Euros? 563 00:26:59,720 --> 00:27:02,371 Prime minister, I do urge you not to clutter your mind 564 00:27:02,440 --> 00:27:05,569 with procedural detail and monetary trivia. 565 00:27:05,840 --> 00:27:07,968 Humphrey, in words of one syllable, 566 00:27:08,200 --> 00:27:11,727 is this plan dependant on our abandoning sterling 567 00:27:11,840 --> 00:27:12,921 and joining the euro? 568 00:27:13,000 --> 00:27:14,604 Well, dependant has three syllables. 569 00:27:14,840 --> 00:27:17,081 And abandoning has four. 570 00:27:19,880 --> 00:27:20,961 Right, oh, good heavens. 571 00:27:21,240 --> 00:27:22,924 Oh, look at the time, prime minister. 572 00:27:23,080 --> 00:27:26,402 It's almost time for your dinner with the kumranistan foreign minister. 573 00:27:26,480 --> 00:27:28,642 - Now, you really must not be late. - Humphrey! 574 00:27:30,440 --> 00:27:31,851 Answer my question! 575 00:27:32,040 --> 00:27:33,405 All right, prime minister. 576 00:27:33,480 --> 00:27:36,768 You have asked a straight question and I'll give you a straight answer, 577 00:27:38,120 --> 00:27:40,487 which, however, clearly depends on its context. 578 00:27:41,200 --> 00:27:43,806 In the course of all financial negotiations, 579 00:27:43,880 --> 00:27:46,884 certain provisos have to be pre-cogitated 580 00:27:46,960 --> 00:27:48,086 and pre-conditioned. 581 00:27:48,320 --> 00:27:52,120 Various caveats have to be postulated, designated, investigated, 582 00:27:52,200 --> 00:27:55,409 and specified, and a number of considerations 583 00:27:55,480 --> 00:27:57,164 have to be unequivocally determined, 584 00:27:57,240 --> 00:27:59,288 acknowledged and indeed sometimes even conceded 585 00:27:59,640 --> 00:28:03,645 so that we can facilitate the finalisation of preliminary plans 586 00:28:03,720 --> 00:28:05,961 to create an epistemological basis 587 00:28:06,240 --> 00:28:09,449 for all parties to proceed towards 588 00:28:09,520 --> 00:28:13,570 a mutually beneficial consummation which will acknowledge and safeguard 589 00:28:13,640 --> 00:28:15,927 the vital interests of all the participants 590 00:28:16,000 --> 00:28:18,241 without jeopardising in any material way 591 00:28:18,320 --> 00:28:22,245 the underlying collective benefits ultimately accruing to the signatories 592 00:28:22,320 --> 00:28:25,164 or leaving unresolved any anomalies or irregularities 593 00:28:25,240 --> 00:28:28,642 which could precipitate operational uncertainty down the line, 594 00:28:28,720 --> 00:28:30,404 so that there will be a presumed modicum 595 00:28:30,480 --> 00:28:33,450 of iron-clad reciprocity, which in the great scheme of things 596 00:28:33,520 --> 00:28:35,363 will be to everybody's advantage. 597 00:28:42,160 --> 00:28:43,764 Did that mean yes or no? 598 00:28:45,160 --> 00:28:46,321 Don't you think that yes and no 599 00:28:46,400 --> 00:28:48,767 are rather broad and unspecific in their application? 600 00:28:49,040 --> 00:28:50,087 No! 601 00:28:51,240 --> 00:28:54,005 I want a clear, unambiguous answer. 602 00:28:54,200 --> 00:28:56,248 Certainly. What was the question again? 603 00:28:57,360 --> 00:29:00,682 Is joining the euro a condition of getting the loan? 604 00:29:01,000 --> 00:29:03,401 Well, in the sense that if agreement of the... 605 00:29:03,480 --> 00:29:08,247 Humphrey, I repeat, is joining the euro a condition of getting the loan? 606 00:29:09,320 --> 00:29:10,765 Yes, prime minister.