Ep 1. Episode 1

In the opening episode of season two of "The Thick of It," tensions are running high in the world of British politics. As the episode begins, we see a flurry of activity in the offices of the Department of Social Affairs and Citizenship, where the Minister of Social Affairs, Hugh Abbot, and his team are frantically trying to prepare for an upcoming television interview. Despite his attempts to stay focused, Abbot finds himself constantly sidetracked by the demands and distractions of his staff, who are juggling multiple crises at once.

At the heart of the episode's drama is the introduction of a new policy aimed at improving social mobility in the UK. The policy, which proposes a quota for the number of working-class students admitted to top universities, is intended to address the stark inequalities that persist in British society. However, as Abbot and his team quickly learn, getting the policy off the ground is anything but easy. The proposal immediately sparks controversy and outrage among both conservative lawmakers and left-wing activists, who decry it as either too radical or not radical enough.

As the episode progresses, tensions within the Department of Social Affairs and Citizenship continue to rise. Abbot's right-hand man, Malcolm Tucker, struggles to keep the team on track amidst a series of chaotic and unexpected setbacks, ranging from a leaked memo to a news story that suggests Abbot is sleeping with a member of his staff. Meanwhile, Abbot himself becomes increasingly disillusioned with the political process as he struggles to keep his head above water.

Despite these challenges, however, Abbot remains determined to push forward with the social mobility policy. In a powerful moment later in the episode, he gives an impassioned speech in defense of the policy, arguing that it is not only morally right, but also vital for the future of the country. His words inspire both his staff and the audience watching the interview, showing that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to make a difference and fight for what you believe in.

Throughout episode one of season two of "The Thick of It," the writing is sharp, witty, and full of biting social commentary. The characters are complex and multifaceted, each with their own unique quirks and struggles. The show does an excellent job of capturing the fast-paced, cutthroat world of British politics, where a single misstep can lead to disaster.

Overall, "The Thick of It" season two episode one is a strong start to the new season, setting up a number of intriguing storylines and leaving viewers eager to see what comes next. Whether you are a fan of political dramas or simply appreciate smart and well-crafted television, this episode is a must-see.