Fred Moffatt, 'The Gaffer', is the director of a recession-hit, light-engineering company and is always teetering on the edge of disaster. He is a friendly man who is constantly trying to keep his head above water, primarily by extracting money from his clients. His efforts to control his workforce are thwarted by his shop steward, Harry, who is well versed in downing tools and asking for pay rises. His secretary, Betty, is the buffer between the warring factions and wise to all their games.