Yes Minister

Yes, Prime Minister. Image shows from L to R: James Hacker (Paul Eddington), Sir Humphrey Appleby (Nigel Hawthorne), Bernard Woolley (Derek Fowlds)

This hit satirical British sitcom is written by Antony Jay and Jonathan Lynn. It follows the political adventures of Jim Hacker, a cabinet minister working in Whitehall. Jim's various attempts to bring in new laws or effect departmental changes are opposed by the Civil Service, in particular Permanent Secretary Sir Humphrey Appleby.

The political comedy started life in 1980 under the title of Yes Minister. Following three series, it was then adapted for the radio.

In 1986 it returned under the new title of Yes, Prime Minister, with the lead character now promoted from the Department for Administrative Affairs to the role of Prime Minister.

In 2013 the writers brought the format back, with a new cast, for digital channel Gold. A documentary about the satirical series was also produced at this time.

You can find out lots more about the various versions of the show in our guides:

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