Ep 8. One of Us
- TV-PG
- February 27, 1986
- 29 min
-
8.7 (284)
One of Us is the eighth episode of the first season of Yes, Prime Minister. The show is a British political satire that revolves around the Prime Minister Jim Hacker and his dealings with the Civil Service and the Cabinet. The series is a sequel to the popular series Yes Minister and follows the same characters in their new positions.
The episode begins with Jim Hacker discussing his upcoming reshuffle with the Cabinet Secretary, Sir Humphrey Appleby. Jim is keen to promote his friend and colleague Angus Maclaren to a senior government position. However, Sir Humphrey warns Jim that Angus is not the right person for the job and that he should consider someone else.
Jim is not convinced and insists that Angus is the right man for the job. He also voices his concerns that he is surrounded by people who are not like him and that he needs someone who is one of us. Sir Humphrey tries to persuade Jim that this is not the right way to approach things, but Jim remains adamant.
Meanwhile, the Civil Service is preparing for a major strike and Sir Humphrey is busy negotiating with the union leaders. However, Jim is not happy with the way things are going and feels that the Civil Service is not doing enough to prevent the strike.
Jim puts pressure on Sir Humphrey to find a solution to the strike and to ensure that the government is not embarrassed. Sir Humphrey assures Jim that he is doing everything he can, but Jim is not convinced.
As the strike approaches, Jim becomes increasingly desperate and decides to take matters into his own hands. He devises a plan to try and stop the strike by using some unorthodox methods.
Meanwhile, Sir Humphrey is dealing with an issue of his own, as he becomes embroiled in a scandal involving a member of his staff. Sir Humphrey must navigate this tricky situation, whilst also dealing with the strike and trying to keep Jim happy.
As the episode progresses, tensions between Jim and Sir Humphrey reach boiling point. Jim becomes frustrated with the Civil Service and Sir Humphrey's inability to solve the strike, whilst Sir Humphrey becomes increasingly exasperated with Jim's constant interference.
The episode comes to a dramatic conclusion as Jim's plan to stop the strike backfires, leaving him in a very difficult position. Sir Humphrey must once again step in to try and salvage the situation, but it remains to be seen whether he will be able to save Jim from the consequences of his actions.
Overall, One of Us is a compelling episode that explores the relationship between the Prime Minister and the Civil Service. The show is witty, intelligent and thought-provoking, and provides a fascinating insight into the workings of British politics. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in politics, satire, or just good television.