1 00:00:30,230 --> 00:00:32,836 There's been no breakthrough in the month-long negotiations 2 00:00:32,910 --> 00:00:35,834 to find a way out of Europe's financial crisis. 3 00:00:36,230 --> 00:00:39,996 Getting the French, Germans and British out of their economic mess 4 00:00:40,270 --> 00:00:42,398 has so far eluded all three governments, 5 00:00:42,590 --> 00:00:45,719 with the result that Greece, Ireland, Spain, Portugal and Italy 6 00:00:45,790 --> 00:00:47,997 are still economic disaster zones, 7 00:00:48,150 --> 00:00:50,039 teetering on the edge of bankruptcy. 8 00:00:50,110 --> 00:00:51,191 Over here. Over here. 9 00:00:51,430 --> 00:00:53,671 Reporter". When the prime minister emerged from the talks 10 00:00:53,750 --> 00:00:56,833 earlier this morning, he seemed surprisingly calm. 11 00:00:57,230 --> 00:00:59,039 Yet, he refused to speak to reporters. 12 00:00:59,110 --> 00:01:01,920 We understand that he is due to appear on the one o'clock news 13 00:01:02,230 --> 00:01:03,914 before going to chequers for the weekend. 14 00:01:06,230 --> 00:01:08,961 So, prime minister, the pound is falling, 15 00:01:09,190 --> 00:01:11,477 the ftse's dropping like a stone, 16 00:01:11,550 --> 00:01:13,598 inflation could be on the way up, 17 00:01:13,790 --> 00:01:15,679 your coalition is divided, 18 00:01:15,830 --> 00:01:17,878 and now the conference on the euro crisis 19 00:01:17,950 --> 00:01:19,076 looks like a dead end. 20 00:01:19,190 --> 00:01:20,840 It's all a bit of a disaster, isn't it? 21 00:01:21,110 --> 00:01:22,919 You know, I'm glad you asked me that. 22 00:01:25,630 --> 00:01:28,395 So, would you like to give us an answer? 23 00:01:28,470 --> 00:01:30,234 - Yes. - Yes, it looks like a disaster? 24 00:01:30,310 --> 00:01:32,677 No, no! It's not a disaster. 25 00:01:32,750 --> 00:01:34,354 And, yes, I'd like to answer the question. 26 00:01:34,470 --> 00:01:36,313 Please don't interrupt until after I've finished speaking. 27 00:01:37,590 --> 00:01:39,319 To you it may look like a disaster, 28 00:01:39,390 --> 00:01:41,199 but you don't know what's been going on 29 00:01:41,270 --> 00:01:42,635 inside Lancaster house. 30 00:01:43,030 --> 00:01:46,398 - No, that's why I'm asking about it. - No, no. 31 00:01:46,470 --> 00:01:48,837 You're asking if it's all a disaster, 32 00:01:48,950 --> 00:01:50,634 typically loaded question, 33 00:01:50,710 --> 00:01:52,712 completely prejudicial. 34 00:01:52,910 --> 00:01:56,960 Have you ever considered asking something open-minded, like, 35 00:01:57,630 --> 00:01:59,314 "how are negotiations going?" 36 00:01:59,510 --> 00:02:01,433 Fine. How are negotiations going? 37 00:02:01,670 --> 00:02:03,081 Well, obviously, I can't tell you that. 38 00:02:03,150 --> 00:02:06,677 - They're... they're confidential. - But... 39 00:02:07,070 --> 00:02:09,676 I can tell you there has been much progress. 40 00:02:09,950 --> 00:02:12,237 A Frank exchange of views 41 00:02:12,510 --> 00:02:16,310 and we all have an increasingly clear understanding of the situation. 42 00:02:16,590 --> 00:02:19,355 Like the crew of the Titanic when they hit the iceberg? 43 00:02:19,950 --> 00:02:24,717 No! There's a great deal of good will and each country wants an agreement. 44 00:02:24,870 --> 00:02:26,998 But each country wants a different agreement! 45 00:02:27,190 --> 00:02:31,240 If we all wanted the same thing, we wouldn't be here negotiating! 46 00:02:32,390 --> 00:02:34,313 There'd be no need to negotiate. 47 00:02:34,430 --> 00:02:36,671 No, the fact of the matter is, 48 00:02:36,950 --> 00:02:39,112 we all have to pull together, 49 00:02:39,310 --> 00:02:40,755 tighten our belts. 50 00:02:40,870 --> 00:02:43,396 We need some give and take. 51 00:02:43,670 --> 00:02:46,276 Because, if, at the end of the day, 52 00:02:46,430 --> 00:02:49,559 we all want a better 'tomorrow... 53 00:02:50,430 --> 00:02:51,875 We're all in the same boat. 54 00:02:51,950 --> 00:02:53,076 The ss Titanic! 55 00:02:54,070 --> 00:02:56,118 No, not the Titanic. 56 00:03:00,590 --> 00:03:01,637 Nothing else to ask? 57 00:03:01,830 --> 00:03:04,356 I was waiting to be sure I wasn't interrupting. 58 00:03:05,870 --> 00:03:09,272 Today is Friday. Monday is the last day of this economic summit. 59 00:03:09,350 --> 00:03:11,318 Is there any likelihood of an agreement by then? 60 00:03:11,510 --> 00:03:14,275 The treaty of Rome wasn't built in a day, you know! 61 00:03:18,270 --> 00:03:21,592 At the very least, we'll have done some invaluable ground work 62 00:03:21,670 --> 00:03:22,831 for the next conference. 63 00:03:23,070 --> 00:03:24,720 You said that after the last conference. 64 00:03:24,830 --> 00:03:30,792 I did. And do you know I believe that consistency is important. 65 00:03:31,510 --> 00:03:33,433 - Thank you, prime minister. - Thank you. 66 00:03:33,990 --> 00:03:36,755 And the main headline again, there is still no sign of agreement 67 00:03:36,870 --> 00:03:38,554 at the Lancaster house conference. 68 00:03:38,790 --> 00:03:41,475 The prime minister has denied that the European union 69 00:03:41,550 --> 00:03:43,234 is sailing on the Titanic. 70 00:03:43,510 --> 00:03:44,557 And now, the weather. 71 00:03:45,030 --> 00:03:47,237 It's a gloomy forecast for the next couple of days, 72 00:03:47,510 --> 00:03:49,797 with further severe thunderstorms, I'm afraid, 73 00:03:49,870 --> 00:03:51,759 heading in towards London and the home counties... 74 00:03:52,030 --> 00:03:54,192 Why did you allow him to give that interview? 75 00:03:54,310 --> 00:03:55,835 I couldn't stop him, sir Humphrey. 76 00:03:56,470 --> 00:03:57,995 He's so desperate for attention. 77 00:04:00,150 --> 00:04:01,436 Everything's so awful. 78 00:04:01,510 --> 00:04:03,194 What is awful, Bernard? 79 00:04:03,270 --> 00:04:04,760 All these jobs going! 80 00:04:05,190 --> 00:04:08,831 Interest rates, repossessions, fear of inflation. 81 00:04:09,190 --> 00:04:11,557 Oh, yes! Terrible! 82 00:04:13,950 --> 00:04:15,918 You don't sound terribly worried, sir Humphrey. 83 00:04:15,990 --> 00:04:18,721 Bernard, I am not being sacked, repossessed or inflated. 84 00:04:20,390 --> 00:04:22,438 Nor is the prime minister, but he's worried stiff. 85 00:04:22,590 --> 00:04:23,921 And so he should be. 86 00:04:23,990 --> 00:04:26,834 - You don't sympathise with him? - Bernard, that's the deal. 87 00:04:26,950 --> 00:04:29,157 That's how prime ministers' careers go. 88 00:04:29,550 --> 00:04:33,111 They get to be on the front page every day for years, which they love. 89 00:04:33,630 --> 00:04:35,712 They travel the long path, Bernard. 90 00:04:36,030 --> 00:04:39,432 From euphoric triumph to ignominious failure. 91 00:04:39,830 --> 00:04:42,800 And then they make way for the next saviour of the nation. 92 00:04:43,390 --> 00:04:44,630 It's called democracy. 93 00:04:46,510 --> 00:04:49,081 It beats me why anyone would want to be prime minister. 94 00:04:49,190 --> 00:04:52,114 It's the only top job that requires no previous experience. 95 00:04:55,070 --> 00:04:58,392 No training, no qualifications and limited intelligence. 96 00:05:00,150 --> 00:05:03,120 Sir Humphrey, you do believe in democracy, don't you? 97 00:05:03,390 --> 00:05:04,551 Do I, Bernard? 98 00:05:05,710 --> 00:05:06,871 Well, actually, no. 99 00:05:07,910 --> 00:05:09,400 Well, not as most people understand it. 100 00:05:09,470 --> 00:05:11,359 You see, Bernard, democracy should not be 101 00:05:11,430 --> 00:05:13,319 about executing the will of the people. 102 00:05:13,510 --> 00:05:15,000 No, it should be the process 103 00:05:15,070 --> 00:05:17,437 whereby we secure the consent of the people 104 00:05:17,550 --> 00:05:20,759 to the policies of those qualified to decide on their behalf. 105 00:05:22,270 --> 00:05:24,398 - Like who? - Like us, Bernard! 106 00:05:25,630 --> 00:05:27,632 Well, I believe in democracy, sir Humphrey. 107 00:05:27,990 --> 00:05:29,355 It does you credit. 108 00:05:31,150 --> 00:05:34,996 And if all the voters were as informed and as intelligent as, 109 00:05:35,070 --> 00:05:37,471 well, say me or even you, Bernard, 110 00:05:37,670 --> 00:05:40,799 then, yes, that could possibly work, but it's hardly realistic. 111 00:05:41,030 --> 00:05:42,998 Well, obviously, we have to stop the government 112 00:05:43,070 --> 00:05:44,640 from making stupid mistakes. 113 00:05:45,910 --> 00:05:47,275 But I am there to help him. 114 00:05:47,550 --> 00:05:50,838 Bernard! We have a leadership crisis in this country 115 00:05:51,110 --> 00:05:53,556 and if the government can't or won't exercise it, 116 00:05:53,790 --> 00:05:55,076 it falls to us, 117 00:05:55,270 --> 00:05:56,635 whether we want it or not. 118 00:05:56,750 --> 00:05:59,356 I know! Power abhors a vacuum. 119 00:05:59,510 --> 00:06:01,512 And we are currently led by one. 120 00:06:04,710 --> 00:06:08,032 And it is made even worse because he has no overall majority. 121 00:06:08,350 --> 00:06:09,920 A hung parliament's a bad thing? 122 00:06:10,070 --> 00:06:12,391 Yes, Bernard. Hanging's too good for them. 123 00:06:13,790 --> 00:06:16,794 Well, at least the coalition agreement that they came up with seems reasonable. 124 00:06:17,030 --> 00:06:18,634 Well, of course it is, Bernard, I wrote it for them. 125 00:06:20,310 --> 00:06:22,790 If the prime minister wants to do something silly, 126 00:06:22,870 --> 00:06:25,794 we can make sure that his coalition partners stop him. 127 00:06:26,150 --> 00:06:28,073 And we should exercise power, Bernard, 128 00:06:28,150 --> 00:06:30,835 because we have nothing to gain or lose personally. 129 00:06:31,110 --> 00:06:34,273 We have respectable salaries, honours, an office, a chauffeur... 130 00:06:34,470 --> 00:06:35,881 Well, I haven't got a chauffeur! 131 00:06:35,990 --> 00:06:37,674 You will, Bernard, when you grow up. 132 00:06:39,870 --> 00:06:43,158 We end up with an index-linked pension, a bank directorship, 133 00:06:43,510 --> 00:06:47,640 couple of nicely remunerated quangos and a cottage in the dordogne. 134 00:06:48,150 --> 00:06:50,391 So, we can be even-handed in our judgements 135 00:06:50,590 --> 00:06:52,558 and make them entirely in the public interest. 136 00:06:54,990 --> 00:06:56,992 That interview went pretty well, didn't it? 137 00:06:59,390 --> 00:07:00,676 Didn't you think so? 138 00:07:02,030 --> 00:07:03,191 You didn't think so? 139 00:07:05,470 --> 00:07:07,313 Well, it wasn't that bad, was it? 140 00:07:08,710 --> 00:07:09,871 Was it? 141 00:07:10,750 --> 00:07:12,115 You thought it was that bad. 142 00:07:12,190 --> 00:07:13,919 Oh, my God! 143 00:07:14,470 --> 00:07:15,881 Why did you give that interview? 144 00:07:16,110 --> 00:07:18,112 Somebody has to give a positive impression. 145 00:07:18,390 --> 00:07:20,438 Honestly, Jim, I am head of your policy unit. 146 00:07:20,510 --> 00:07:22,831 I wish you'd talk to me before revealing to the nation 147 00:07:22,910 --> 00:07:24,878 just how awful everything is. 148 00:07:25,630 --> 00:07:27,553 Will you be able to get some sort of agreement? 149 00:07:27,630 --> 00:07:28,677 Doesn't look like it. 150 00:07:29,110 --> 00:07:31,841 Dealing with the Europeans is like herding cats! 151 00:07:32,430 --> 00:07:34,512 Being president of Europe isn't enough. 152 00:07:35,030 --> 00:07:37,601 Europe is an empire, it needs an emperor! 153 00:07:38,110 --> 00:07:39,236 You mean you? 154 00:07:39,310 --> 00:07:40,391 Well, of course, it's not... 155 00:07:40,470 --> 00:07:42,199 Yeah, please don't say that to the BBC. 156 00:07:42,710 --> 00:07:44,838 No. No, I'll try not to. 157 00:07:45,310 --> 00:07:47,916 We cannot govern Europe without joining the euro. 158 00:07:47,990 --> 00:07:49,116 Why not? 159 00:07:49,350 --> 00:07:51,671 We governed India without joining the rupee. 160 00:07:54,870 --> 00:07:56,679 So, what's the agenda for this weekend? 161 00:07:56,750 --> 00:08:00,800 Oh! Find a way of ending this conference without looking like a complete idiot. 162 00:08:01,990 --> 00:08:04,357 And why haven't you invited the foreign secretary to chequers? 163 00:08:04,430 --> 00:08:05,636 The foreign secretary? 164 00:08:05,990 --> 00:08:07,355 Well, he does have an interest. 165 00:08:07,550 --> 00:08:10,121 His only interest is in pushing me overboard 166 00:08:10,190 --> 00:08:11,430 and taking my job. 167 00:08:11,590 --> 00:08:13,638 And you haven't invited the chancellor either. 168 00:08:14,150 --> 00:08:17,233 No. Sir Humphrey advised me not to ask either of them, actually. 169 00:08:17,550 --> 00:08:20,759 - Why not? - He wants a quiet weekend, he says. 170 00:08:21,310 --> 00:08:22,755 Just the home team. 171 00:08:23,150 --> 00:08:25,312 You, me, him and Bernard. 172 00:08:25,510 --> 00:08:27,000 Hmm. It's so unlike him. 173 00:08:28,150 --> 00:08:29,390 He's up to something. 174 00:08:29,950 --> 00:08:31,031 I'll find out. 175 00:08:31,630 --> 00:08:35,316 And we'll try to come up with some sort of final communiqu�. 176 00:08:35,630 --> 00:08:36,870 That'll make it a success? 177 00:08:36,950 --> 00:08:40,113 Claire! Dealing with Europe isn't about achieving success. 178 00:08:40,190 --> 00:08:42,079 It's about concealing failure. 179 00:08:48,270 --> 00:08:49,317 Yes. 180 00:08:51,350 --> 00:08:52,397 The prime minister's arrived. 181 00:08:52,470 --> 00:08:54,279 - How does he sound? - Irritable. 182 00:08:55,070 --> 00:08:57,914 Well, things may not seem so bad soon, when we tell the prime minister 183 00:08:57,990 --> 00:08:59,515 about kumranistan. 184 00:08:59,830 --> 00:09:02,037 "European central bank to the rescue." 185 00:09:02,110 --> 00:09:05,910 Bernard, do not mention the ecb to the prime minister. 186 00:09:06,110 --> 00:09:07,874 - No, sir Humphrey. - And whatever you do, 187 00:09:07,990 --> 00:09:10,596 don't let him know that that kumranistan plan 188 00:09:10,790 --> 00:09:12,792 is dependent on our joining the euro. 189 00:09:13,030 --> 00:09:15,271 But it does say so in the ecb proposal. 190 00:09:15,350 --> 00:09:17,000 Yes, but not until page 67. 191 00:09:18,070 --> 00:09:19,993 And he never gets beyond page three of anything. 192 00:09:22,110 --> 00:09:23,953 And then he jumps to the last paragraph. 193 00:09:24,430 --> 00:09:26,717 But conceal this report, just in case. 194 00:09:27,630 --> 00:09:29,155 Vehicle licensing centre, swansea. 195 00:09:29,230 --> 00:09:30,277 Yes. 196 00:09:33,510 --> 00:09:35,672 Bottom of the fifth box. 197 00:09:35,750 --> 00:09:36,831 Fifth box. 198 00:09:39,270 --> 00:09:40,317 He'll never find it. 199 00:09:40,790 --> 00:09:41,916 This had better work, Bernard. 200 00:09:42,150 --> 00:09:43,834 You know his views on Europe. 201 00:09:43,990 --> 00:09:47,119 Well, I know he's afraid brussels wants to take away most of his powers. 202 00:09:47,350 --> 00:09:48,476 They already have. 203 00:09:49,510 --> 00:09:50,671 And so they should. 204 00:09:51,270 --> 00:09:54,001 Now, all we need him to do is to preside at tonight's dinner. 205 00:09:54,310 --> 00:09:58,395 Pretend he's read this kumranistan plan and leave the rest to us. 206 00:09:58,790 --> 00:10:00,155 Sorry I'm late. 207 00:10:00,630 --> 00:10:03,031 It's been a terrible day. 208 00:10:03,190 --> 00:10:04,635 Any particular reason? 209 00:10:05,230 --> 00:10:07,278 - You've read about the cabinet split? - Yes. 210 00:10:07,550 --> 00:10:09,075 And you have seen what has happened to the ftse? 211 00:10:09,150 --> 00:10:10,197 - Yes. - And the pound? 212 00:10:10,270 --> 00:10:12,272 - Yes. - And the inflation forecast? 213 00:10:12,350 --> 00:10:14,352 - Yes. - And the rising unemployment figures? 214 00:10:14,430 --> 00:10:15,511 Yes. 215 00:10:15,590 --> 00:10:17,797 So how many particular reasons do you want? 216 00:10:17,870 --> 00:10:18,871 Well... 217 00:10:18,950 --> 00:10:21,521 And now this Lancaster house conference 218 00:10:21,590 --> 00:10:23,080 is turning into a catastrophe! 219 00:10:23,510 --> 00:10:24,955 Well, it was your idea to convene it. 220 00:10:25,150 --> 00:10:28,359 If you become president of Europe in the middle of the biggest 221 00:10:28,430 --> 00:10:30,956 financial crisis for 80 years... 222 00:10:31,030 --> 00:10:34,477 Prime minister, with respect, there is no such title as president of Europe. 223 00:10:34,830 --> 00:10:37,481 Oh, you are so pedantic, Bernard! 224 00:10:39,150 --> 00:10:41,676 All right, what is my official title then? 225 00:10:41,750 --> 00:10:43,115 President of the European council? 226 00:10:43,310 --> 00:10:46,154 Uh, no, prime minister, the presidency of the European council 227 00:10:46,230 --> 00:10:47,880 went to the Belgian prime minister. 228 00:10:48,150 --> 00:10:49,993 Who is completely unknown. 229 00:10:50,230 --> 00:10:51,834 Well, obviously. He's Belgian. 230 00:10:53,430 --> 00:10:55,080 And not elected. 231 00:10:55,590 --> 00:10:57,399 Appointed in secret. 232 00:10:57,710 --> 00:11:00,077 Of course, you wouldn't have a problem with that, would you, Humphrey? 233 00:11:00,150 --> 00:11:02,437 Oh, prime minister, you do me an injustice. 234 00:11:02,710 --> 00:11:06,556 I'm all in favour of elections, provided the right people do the voting. 235 00:11:07,710 --> 00:11:08,950 I don't understand this! 236 00:11:09,030 --> 00:11:11,158 I'm sure I'm President of the council. 237 00:11:11,230 --> 00:11:13,119 I remember being in the chair. 238 00:11:13,430 --> 00:11:15,273 Well, it is a little confusing, prime minister. 239 00:11:15,350 --> 00:11:17,398 You see, we, the British, 240 00:11:17,470 --> 00:11:20,440 have the presidency of the council of the European union. 241 00:11:20,510 --> 00:11:21,591 That's what I said! 242 00:11:21,670 --> 00:11:24,958 Uh, no. The European council and the council of the European union 243 00:11:25,030 --> 00:11:26,077 are not the same thing. 244 00:11:27,070 --> 00:11:30,233 The President of the European council is there for 30 months 245 00:11:30,350 --> 00:11:32,956 and is in charge of, well, preparing the agenda 246 00:11:33,030 --> 00:11:35,431 and chairing the meetings of the European council. 247 00:11:35,750 --> 00:11:39,436 Whereas the presidency of the council of the European union 248 00:11:39,590 --> 00:11:42,116 is held for six months each by rotating states 249 00:11:42,190 --> 00:11:44,796 and not by individual leaders and not by you. 250 00:11:47,670 --> 00:11:49,672 So which of them really runs Europe? 251 00:11:49,750 --> 00:11:50,831 Oh, I see! 252 00:11:50,910 --> 00:11:51,991 Neither. 253 00:11:53,110 --> 00:11:55,716 Uh, prime minister, let me simplify it for you. 254 00:11:56,190 --> 00:12:00,115 The European union is run on an intricate and sophisticated system 255 00:12:00,270 --> 00:12:02,432 based on an hierarchical structure 256 00:12:02,630 --> 00:12:06,112 of interlocking and overlapping jurisdictions 257 00:12:06,430 --> 00:12:10,276 designed to separate the powers while reinforcing the authority 258 00:12:10,390 --> 00:12:12,552 of the departments, institutions and agencies 259 00:12:12,630 --> 00:12:16,430 who collectively and separately control and supervise 260 00:12:16,510 --> 00:12:19,992 the diverse activities of the union and its associated organisations. 261 00:12:22,070 --> 00:12:26,359 So, Europe is actually run by the president 262 00:12:26,550 --> 00:12:30,271 of the European commission who is akin to the prime minister of Europe 263 00:12:30,430 --> 00:12:33,957 because he is elected and he heads a cabinet government. 264 00:12:34,630 --> 00:12:38,077 But the President of the council, 265 00:12:38,150 --> 00:12:40,517 he is, in fact, appointed, not elected. 266 00:12:40,590 --> 00:12:43,070 And he presides over the meetings of that council, 267 00:12:43,150 --> 00:12:44,436 which is not the cabinet. 268 00:12:45,990 --> 00:12:49,437 And then, prime minister, there is the council of the European union. 269 00:12:51,990 --> 00:12:54,960 Now, britain currently has that presidency. 270 00:12:56,390 --> 00:12:59,394 And, while you are the rotating president, 271 00:13:00,190 --> 00:13:02,352 the presidency itself is not yours personally. 272 00:13:03,590 --> 00:13:04,921 That simplifies it? 273 00:13:05,870 --> 00:13:07,872 Prime minister, what it all boils down to, 274 00:13:07,950 --> 00:13:09,111 as far as you're concerned, 275 00:13:09,390 --> 00:13:12,917 is the difference between years of being head of an empire 276 00:13:13,030 --> 00:13:15,397 of nearly 500 million people 277 00:13:15,590 --> 00:13:17,877 and chairing the council of ministers for six months. 278 00:13:17,990 --> 00:13:20,391 The fact of the matter is, I am the president, 279 00:13:20,470 --> 00:13:22,120 or I have the presidency. 280 00:13:22,190 --> 00:13:24,113 I don't give a hoot what we call it. 281 00:13:24,510 --> 00:13:28,151 And I convened the conference on this dreadful recession 282 00:13:28,230 --> 00:13:30,710 and the resulting euro crisis. 283 00:13:30,910 --> 00:13:32,241 I had to do something. 284 00:13:32,350 --> 00:13:35,194 And the conference was something, so you did it. Well done. 285 00:13:37,830 --> 00:13:42,631 But now it's falling apart, which might just about finish me. 286 00:13:42,830 --> 00:13:45,754 Well, prime minister, it might not be falling apart. 287 00:13:46,190 --> 00:13:49,399 Uh, did you see my interview on TV this lunchtime? 288 00:13:49,510 --> 00:13:51,433 - Yes, prime minister. - How was it? 289 00:13:54,310 --> 00:13:55,755 What was wrong with it? 290 00:13:55,870 --> 00:13:58,794 "Ours not to reason why, ours but to do and die." 291 00:14:00,030 --> 00:14:02,397 You just said the conference may not be falling apart. 292 00:14:02,470 --> 00:14:04,996 Don't you know what's going on? Don't you keep up? 293 00:14:05,390 --> 00:14:07,597 Haven't you been reading the conference reports? 294 00:14:07,910 --> 00:14:09,639 I have. Have you? 295 00:14:11,070 --> 00:14:12,196 Not my fault. 296 00:14:13,750 --> 00:14:15,434 The spadework wasn't done properly. 297 00:14:15,670 --> 00:14:18,879 The foreign office and the treasury let me down, badly. 298 00:14:19,190 --> 00:14:21,477 I think the foreign secretary and the chancellor 299 00:14:21,550 --> 00:14:23,200 are plotting to get rid of me already. 300 00:14:23,390 --> 00:14:25,757 That's why I suggested not inviting them this weekend. 301 00:14:25,950 --> 00:14:30,035 But everyone knows you have to agree the final bulletin 302 00:14:30,310 --> 00:14:32,756 before the conference begins. 303 00:14:33,230 --> 00:14:35,801 But instead of having everything nailed down 304 00:14:35,870 --> 00:14:38,794 before they all convened, they left it to chance. 305 00:14:38,870 --> 00:14:39,917 Useless! 306 00:14:42,990 --> 00:14:45,231 Oh, oh, yes, yes. Very good. 307 00:14:47,150 --> 00:14:48,197 What? 308 00:14:48,550 --> 00:14:51,520 "For those in misery, perhaps better things will follow." 309 00:14:51,870 --> 00:14:53,395 Well said, Bernard. 310 00:14:54,510 --> 00:14:56,877 I didn't actually say that, that was Virgil. 311 00:14:56,950 --> 00:14:58,076 Yes, I know that, Bernard. 312 00:14:58,790 --> 00:15:01,316 It was completely predictable. 313 00:15:01,830 --> 00:15:04,595 The krauts don't want a stimulus plan. 314 00:15:05,110 --> 00:15:07,112 They're terrified of runaway inflation. 315 00:15:07,190 --> 00:15:09,033 That's what destroyed the weimar Republic 316 00:15:09,110 --> 00:15:10,236 and brought them Hitler. 317 00:15:10,950 --> 00:15:12,793 The wops and the dagos 318 00:15:13,510 --> 00:15:16,434 are up to their armpits in debt already. 319 00:15:16,750 --> 00:15:20,835 The frogs only want it if France gets all the benefits. 320 00:15:20,910 --> 00:15:23,117 Prime minister, I really think you should stop using 321 00:15:23,190 --> 00:15:26,114 these vintage pejorative epithets to describe our allies. 322 00:15:27,710 --> 00:15:29,314 They might slip out in public sometime. 323 00:15:29,430 --> 00:15:31,080 Quite right, Bernard. Thank you. 324 00:15:31,670 --> 00:15:34,401 And the micks and the polacks 325 00:15:34,470 --> 00:15:36,950 aren't getting the subsidies they were promised, 326 00:15:37,030 --> 00:15:39,032 which they regard as a betrayal. 327 00:15:39,710 --> 00:15:43,556 So it is time for me to get hands-on and give some leadership. 328 00:15:43,790 --> 00:15:44,871 Oh, good. 329 00:15:44,950 --> 00:15:46,076 So, 330 00:15:46,430 --> 00:15:47,511 tell me what I should do. 331 00:15:47,630 --> 00:15:48,677 Ah! 332 00:15:49,790 --> 00:15:52,794 Now, that's just the kind of leadership we need. 333 00:15:52,870 --> 00:15:55,191 Oh! Thank you, Humphrey. 334 00:15:55,510 --> 00:15:58,320 And, prime minister, we have good news for you. 335 00:15:58,630 --> 00:16:01,361 Late last night, we had a breakthrough at Lancaster house. 336 00:16:01,430 --> 00:16:03,194 A new player has appeared on the scene. 337 00:16:03,270 --> 00:16:05,159 The Americans? Are they coming after all... 338 00:16:05,430 --> 00:16:08,639 Ah, no, prime minister, their position is immutable. 339 00:16:08,710 --> 00:16:12,237 They will not come to this conference because you won't let them chair it. 340 00:16:12,310 --> 00:16:15,996 I can't let them chair a European conference, Humphrey. 341 00:16:16,430 --> 00:16:17,511 Look at the map! 342 00:16:21,030 --> 00:16:24,193 Well, it could become an international conference, prime minister. 343 00:16:24,350 --> 00:16:27,559 That could save the whole European financial system 344 00:16:27,630 --> 00:16:28,836 from melting down again. 345 00:16:28,910 --> 00:16:32,153 Oh, don't be silly, Humphrey. I'd lose face. 346 00:16:32,670 --> 00:16:34,115 Oh, yes, of course. Silly me. 347 00:16:34,990 --> 00:16:37,596 Prime minister, the kumranistanis have joined us. 348 00:16:37,990 --> 00:16:39,037 Good! 349 00:16:40,430 --> 00:16:41,477 Have I heard of them? 350 00:16:42,350 --> 00:16:44,557 Prime minister, they have oil. 351 00:16:44,990 --> 00:16:49,871 Yes, massive new reserves of oil have been found in kumranistan. 352 00:16:49,950 --> 00:16:55,400 Now, they're offering a possible $10 trillion loan to Europe 353 00:16:55,510 --> 00:16:57,114 secured against future purchases. 354 00:16:57,390 --> 00:16:59,040 - But that could solve everything. - Yes. 355 00:16:59,230 --> 00:17:00,755 - Save the conference. - Yes. 356 00:17:00,830 --> 00:17:02,798 - Save Europe, in fact. - Yes! 357 00:17:02,990 --> 00:17:05,596 "Triumph for the prime minister." 358 00:17:06,990 --> 00:17:09,755 "Victory for the president of Europe." 359 00:17:09,830 --> 00:17:10,877 Uh, prime minister, you are not... 360 00:17:10,950 --> 00:17:13,715 "Victory for the president of Europe", Humphrey. 361 00:17:14,030 --> 00:17:15,441 Might even save your job. 362 00:17:15,550 --> 00:17:18,030 My job is perfectly safe. 363 00:17:18,150 --> 00:17:20,630 Other people have survived with small majorities. 364 00:17:20,790 --> 00:17:24,431 Wilson had a majority of four in 1964 365 00:17:24,510 --> 00:17:26,194 and he lasted six years. 366 00:17:26,430 --> 00:17:28,432 But he did have to fight a second election pretty soon 367 00:17:28,510 --> 00:17:29,875 to get a working majority. 368 00:17:29,990 --> 00:17:31,230 And Wilson had hair. 369 00:17:36,590 --> 00:17:38,160 What are you saying, Bernard? 370 00:17:38,470 --> 00:17:40,472 Well, it's just that no prime minister 371 00:17:40,550 --> 00:17:43,201 or us president has been elected without a full head of hair 372 00:17:43,270 --> 00:17:45,716 since eisenhower and Churchill in the 1950s. 373 00:17:50,230 --> 00:17:52,881 So I'm saying you did magnificently well 374 00:17:52,950 --> 00:17:55,157 to cobble together a majority of two. 375 00:17:55,990 --> 00:17:58,675 I had hair when I was first elected. 376 00:17:59,750 --> 00:18:03,118 I lost my hair in the service of my country. 377 00:18:03,830 --> 00:18:06,071 Indeed you did, prime minister. 378 00:18:06,350 --> 00:18:07,397 Indeed. 379 00:18:07,470 --> 00:18:08,517 Uh, prime minister, 380 00:18:08,590 --> 00:18:12,390 this kumranistan deal could solve all your problems. 381 00:18:12,470 --> 00:18:13,551 Fine, where do I sign? 382 00:18:13,990 --> 00:18:15,594 No. We're not quite there yet. 383 00:18:15,670 --> 00:18:17,638 Uh, they do want something in exchange. 384 00:18:17,910 --> 00:18:19,799 - You know where kumranistan is? - Yes. 385 00:18:21,990 --> 00:18:23,480 Well, sort of. 386 00:18:24,070 --> 00:18:25,754 You know, it's over there. 387 00:18:27,110 --> 00:18:29,033 It lies in turkistan, 388 00:18:29,390 --> 00:18:33,281 to the north of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Afghanistan. 389 00:18:33,550 --> 00:18:36,030 - Here, in fact. - As I said, exactly. 390 00:18:36,630 --> 00:18:39,554 Now, they had been planning to take their oil to Europe 391 00:18:39,630 --> 00:18:40,791 through the Soviet pipeline... 392 00:18:41,070 --> 00:18:44,552 They're not Soviets any more, Humphrey, they're Russians. 393 00:18:44,630 --> 00:18:47,201 They haven't been Soviets for over 20 years. 394 00:18:47,270 --> 00:18:49,750 They still are in spirit and always will be. 395 00:18:50,390 --> 00:18:52,996 The, urn, Russians want a pretty huge payment. 396 00:18:53,070 --> 00:18:55,437 Which kumranistan does not want to pay 397 00:18:55,510 --> 00:18:59,356 since the Soviets will have their hands on the pipeline tap. 398 00:18:59,470 --> 00:19:03,441 So, with a little prompting from us, the kumranistanis came up with a plan b. 399 00:19:03,750 --> 00:19:06,435 A pipeline through Turkey, Greece and Southern Europe, 400 00:19:06,750 --> 00:19:08,275 avoiding Russia altogether. 401 00:19:08,510 --> 00:19:10,911 What they need now is European agreement. 402 00:19:11,190 --> 00:19:14,831 And that's what they're prepared to lend us $10 trillion for. 403 00:19:14,990 --> 00:19:16,037 Why? 404 00:19:16,110 --> 00:19:20,160 They want the guarantee of future oil purchases by everyone in the eu. 405 00:19:20,990 --> 00:19:22,196 No, I don't get it. 406 00:19:22,670 --> 00:19:24,672 It's awfully simple, prime minister. 407 00:19:25,430 --> 00:19:26,477 Urn... 408 00:19:26,550 --> 00:19:30,794 Kumranistan will lend Europe the money to buy kumranistan's oil. 409 00:19:31,030 --> 00:19:34,000 And Europe borrows another 10 trillion more debt? 410 00:19:34,270 --> 00:19:36,750 Oh, the debt is not a problem. It doesn't have to be repaid for years. 411 00:19:37,190 --> 00:19:40,319 See, we get the money now, interest-free, 412 00:19:40,510 --> 00:19:42,035 but we repay it in the future, 413 00:19:42,150 --> 00:19:44,551 when we buy the oil that we will need anyway. 414 00:19:44,630 --> 00:19:45,961 So, how do they make their money? 415 00:19:46,150 --> 00:19:48,152 Ah, we will have to pay a premium... 416 00:19:48,270 --> 00:19:51,114 - Ah! - But not for many years to come, 417 00:19:51,350 --> 00:19:53,637 when there will be a different government. 418 00:19:57,150 --> 00:19:58,561 Oh, that's all right then. 419 00:20:00,550 --> 00:20:02,439 Are all the Europeans on board? 420 00:20:02,510 --> 00:20:04,000 They are, prime minister. 421 00:20:04,070 --> 00:20:06,596 And the problems are what we've been negotiating 422 00:20:06,830 --> 00:20:09,151 as you will have seen in your red boxes? 423 00:20:09,230 --> 00:20:11,358 Yes. But remind me. 424 00:20:12,430 --> 00:20:15,991 Well, as you'll doubtless remember, the turks refused to cooperate 425 00:20:16,070 --> 00:20:18,471 unless they were admitted to the European union. 426 00:20:18,550 --> 00:20:19,961 Now, I see their point. 427 00:20:20,230 --> 00:20:22,676 I've always had a soft spot for Johnny turk. 428 00:20:22,750 --> 00:20:25,913 Johnny turk! You're on first name terms, then? 429 00:20:27,350 --> 00:20:29,717 Oh! 430 00:20:30,990 --> 00:20:32,833 Yes, that's very droll, prime minister. 431 00:20:33,790 --> 00:20:35,758 Turkey is an important ally. 432 00:20:35,830 --> 00:20:39,357 They are the only Muslim country with a secular democracy, prime minister. 433 00:20:39,430 --> 00:20:41,194 - We do need... - Johnny turk! 434 00:20:41,270 --> 00:20:42,510 Yes. 435 00:20:42,870 --> 00:20:44,440 Anyway, everything is agreed. 436 00:20:45,750 --> 00:20:48,356 Everyone gets a share in the construction. 437 00:20:49,270 --> 00:20:50,317 Ah! 438 00:20:50,390 --> 00:20:51,516 Here's the route. 439 00:21:01,230 --> 00:21:03,039 Well, that looks pretty straightforward. 440 00:21:05,510 --> 00:21:06,796 - We're saved! - Yes. 441 00:21:07,550 --> 00:21:09,552 But why didn't I know about all this? 442 00:21:09,790 --> 00:21:11,997 - It's top secret. - Oh, good God, Humphrey. 443 00:21:12,070 --> 00:21:13,117 I'm the prime minister. 444 00:21:13,190 --> 00:21:14,601 Yes, I know. 445 00:21:16,190 --> 00:21:18,591 And what an excellent prime minister you are. 446 00:21:18,670 --> 00:21:20,240 But this had to be kept under wraps. 447 00:21:20,310 --> 00:21:21,675 If this had leaked, 448 00:21:21,750 --> 00:21:23,957 this week the money markets would have gone mad. 449 00:21:24,030 --> 00:21:25,077 I see. 450 00:21:25,510 --> 00:21:27,717 Well, is that everything I need to know? 451 00:21:27,790 --> 00:21:29,394 - Yes. - Well, there is one more thing. 452 00:21:29,470 --> 00:21:30,596 Bernard? 453 00:21:31,710 --> 00:21:35,078 A power group in kumranistan still want the Russian route. 454 00:21:35,310 --> 00:21:37,677 Oh, Bernard is absolutely right, prime minister. 455 00:21:37,750 --> 00:21:39,434 They didn't want to upset the Soviets. 456 00:21:39,670 --> 00:21:42,560 Well, it is understandable. They do share a border. 457 00:21:42,950 --> 00:21:45,396 But the kumranistan foreign secretary, 458 00:21:45,670 --> 00:21:49,595 he has come over here to offer us the deal, if we want it. 459 00:21:49,830 --> 00:21:50,991 Invite him to dinner! 460 00:21:51,190 --> 00:21:52,874 - Tonight! - I did, prime minister. 461 00:21:53,230 --> 00:21:55,198 That's why we're here. 462 00:21:56,830 --> 00:21:58,514 And he can do the deal, now? 463 00:21:58,590 --> 00:22:00,433 Yes, he has the authority, prime minister, 464 00:22:00,510 --> 00:22:02,751 but he needs careful handling. 465 00:22:03,150 --> 00:22:05,596 They are very sensitive about respect. 466 00:22:05,990 --> 00:22:09,392 You get an awful lot of respect for $10 trillion. 467 00:22:09,830 --> 00:22:11,594 He can have all mine for a start. 468 00:22:11,670 --> 00:22:14,321 Oh, excellent, prime minister. 469 00:22:16,790 --> 00:22:17,916 Bernard! 470 00:22:18,150 --> 00:22:19,197 Yes, prime minister? 471 00:22:19,270 --> 00:22:21,591 There's something you're not happy about, what is it? 472 00:22:21,790 --> 00:22:25,192 - Well, I'm not really sure i... - Oh, spit it out, Bernard. 473 00:22:25,390 --> 00:22:26,471 Well, I... 474 00:22:26,910 --> 00:22:27,991 Ah. 475 00:22:30,830 --> 00:22:31,956 What? 476 00:22:32,550 --> 00:22:34,279 "I fear the greeks, 477 00:22:34,510 --> 00:22:36,877 "especially when they bring gifts." 478 00:22:41,630 --> 00:22:44,031 Remember the trojan horse, prime minister. 479 00:22:50,390 --> 00:22:52,358 The greeks can't afford gifts! 480 00:23:00,430 --> 00:23:01,591 Ah, Claire, 481 00:23:01,830 --> 00:23:03,639 could you come to my study, please? 482 00:23:04,790 --> 00:23:05,951 Now. 483 00:23:17,310 --> 00:23:18,357 Yes, come in. 484 00:23:18,950 --> 00:23:20,475 Ah, Claire. 485 00:23:20,710 --> 00:23:23,680 There's something I don't know about this pipeline plan. 486 00:23:23,750 --> 00:23:25,275 Yes, I've just been finding out about it. 487 00:23:25,550 --> 00:23:27,075 What is it Humphrey hasn't been telling me? 488 00:23:27,230 --> 00:23:28,311 Well, how about the truth? 489 00:23:28,510 --> 00:23:30,672 - What have you found out? - I'll tell you when I'm sure. 490 00:23:30,750 --> 00:23:32,912 Maybe there's something in here. 491 00:23:34,070 --> 00:23:36,072 - Was that the bottom box? - Of course. 492 00:23:36,430 --> 00:23:38,592 - Yeah, try the bottom file. - Oh, yes! 493 00:23:41,750 --> 00:23:44,913 "Vehicle licensing centre, swansea." 494 00:23:45,950 --> 00:23:46,997 Yes! 495 00:23:49,350 --> 00:23:52,797 "Proposal for kumranistan oil pipeline." 496 00:23:53,430 --> 00:23:55,273 I think it could be about the pipeline mechanics. 497 00:23:55,350 --> 00:23:58,911 Oh, I don't care about the mechanics. I'm not an engineer. 498 00:23:59,110 --> 00:24:02,000 No, fiscal mechanics, Jim, financial engineering. 499 00:24:02,070 --> 00:24:04,471 Perhaps, Humphrey has arranged for the proposed loan 500 00:24:04,550 --> 00:24:06,234 to go through the European central bank 501 00:24:06,310 --> 00:24:07,391 and isn't mentioning it. 502 00:24:07,470 --> 00:24:08,551 Is that important? 503 00:24:13,910 --> 00:24:14,957 Yes. 504 00:24:15,550 --> 00:24:18,156 Yes, if so, if we want any of the loan, 505 00:24:18,430 --> 00:24:19,795 we'll have to join the euro. 506 00:24:19,990 --> 00:24:23,517 We can't join the euro, it would be a catastrophe! 507 00:24:24,030 --> 00:24:25,555 Look what's happened to Greece, 508 00:24:25,830 --> 00:24:28,356 Spain, Italy, Ireland, Portugal! 509 00:24:28,870 --> 00:24:31,441 Hand over control of interest rates, 510 00:24:31,590 --> 00:24:33,399 control of exchange rates, 511 00:24:33,590 --> 00:24:35,319 control of the money supply? 512 00:24:35,630 --> 00:24:38,600 What if I need to inflate to get re-elected? 513 00:24:41,070 --> 00:24:44,677 If the Germans are worried about rising prices, 514 00:24:44,830 --> 00:24:48,039 the ecb could deflate and I could get kicked out. 515 00:24:48,110 --> 00:24:50,477 Well, candidly, I not sure that that would bother sir Humphrey. 516 00:24:50,630 --> 00:24:52,200 Well, let's find out. 517 00:24:55,030 --> 00:24:57,840 Yes, Bernard, tell Humphrey I want to see him, please. 518 00:24:57,950 --> 00:24:59,793 No, no, 519 00:24:59,870 --> 00:25:03,079 anytime within the next 10 seconds will do. 520 00:25:04,630 --> 00:25:05,711 Yes? 521 00:25:06,110 --> 00:25:07,157 It's come through. 522 00:25:07,710 --> 00:25:09,200 From the controller general? 523 00:25:10,030 --> 00:25:13,671 Great. Could you print it all out and I'll come and get it right away. 524 00:25:16,470 --> 00:25:17,517 Oh. 525 00:25:17,870 --> 00:25:19,156 Ah, Humphrey. 526 00:25:25,590 --> 00:25:27,001 Prime minister? 527 00:25:27,230 --> 00:25:28,436 Do sit down! 528 00:25:30,350 --> 00:25:31,556 Tell me, 529 00:25:32,070 --> 00:25:35,517 what would a cabinet secretary do 530 00:25:35,590 --> 00:25:38,161 if he thought that a prime minister was set on a course 531 00:25:38,230 --> 00:25:40,801 that was seriously damaging to britain? 532 00:25:40,950 --> 00:25:42,315 Do you have a particular cabinet secretary 533 00:25:42,390 --> 00:25:43,437 or prime minister in mind? 534 00:25:43,590 --> 00:25:44,637 No. 535 00:25:44,710 --> 00:25:46,474 No, purely hypothetical. 536 00:25:46,750 --> 00:25:49,640 Well, the cabinet secretary would have to argue very strongly. 537 00:25:49,710 --> 00:25:52,554 But if he failed to persuade the prime minister... 538 00:25:52,630 --> 00:25:53,711 No, I mean, he'd have to. 539 00:25:53,990 --> 00:25:58,678 Ah! So what you're saying is, he'd have to go along with it or resign. 540 00:25:59,390 --> 00:26:00,437 Uh... 541 00:26:02,350 --> 00:26:03,590 Yes, I suppose I am. 542 00:26:03,790 --> 00:26:04,837 Right. 543 00:26:07,030 --> 00:26:11,194 This kumranistan loan is all good news, isn't it? 544 00:26:11,470 --> 00:26:12,960 Oh, tremendous news! 545 00:26:13,670 --> 00:26:18,517 There are no hidden snags, you know, terms and conditions, penalty clauses, 546 00:26:18,950 --> 00:26:21,317 - tough guarantee... - Oh, no, nothing like that. 547 00:26:21,390 --> 00:26:22,994 - Standard agreement. - Great! 548 00:26:23,390 --> 00:26:26,314 Just an ordinary treasury loan, as far as we're concerned. 549 00:26:26,630 --> 00:26:28,314 - In a sense, yes. - In a sense? 550 00:26:28,710 --> 00:26:30,712 Well, in due course, following agreed procedures, 551 00:26:30,790 --> 00:26:32,360 after certain formalities. 552 00:26:32,630 --> 00:26:34,917 But the money goes straight to the treasury. 553 00:26:35,110 --> 00:26:37,431 Oh, it goes to the treasury, of course. Yes. 554 00:26:37,510 --> 00:26:38,557 Straight 555 00:26:39,670 --> 00:26:40,751 to the treasury? 556 00:26:40,870 --> 00:26:42,440 Well, broadly speaking, yes, more or less. 557 00:26:42,510 --> 00:26:43,557 Broadly speaking? 558 00:26:43,630 --> 00:26:46,361 How would you describe it if you were narrowly speaking? 559 00:26:48,670 --> 00:26:51,674 Does it have to go through the European central bank? 560 00:26:51,830 --> 00:26:54,720 Prime minister, we get the money, that is what matters. 561 00:26:54,790 --> 00:26:56,394 Let me put this in another way. 562 00:26:56,470 --> 00:26:58,598 Will this loan be in Euros? 563 00:26:58,670 --> 00:27:01,321 Prime minister, I do urge you not to clutter your mind 564 00:27:01,390 --> 00:27:04,519 with procedural detail and monetary trivia. 565 00:27:04,790 --> 00:27:06,918 Humphrey, in words of one syllable, 566 00:27:07,150 --> 00:27:10,677 is this plan dependant on our abandoning sterling 567 00:27:10,790 --> 00:27:11,871 and joining the euro? 568 00:27:11,950 --> 00:27:13,554 Well, dependant has three syllables. 569 00:27:13,790 --> 00:27:16,031 And abandoning has four. 570 00:27:18,830 --> 00:27:19,911 Right, oh, good heavens. 571 00:27:20,190 --> 00:27:21,874 Oh, look at the time, prime minister. 572 00:27:22,030 --> 00:27:25,352 It's almost time for your dinner with the kumranistan foreign minister. 573 00:27:25,430 --> 00:27:27,592 - Now, you really must not be late. - Humphrey! 574 00:27:29,390 --> 00:27:30,801 Answer my question! 575 00:27:30,990 --> 00:27:32,355 All right, prime minister. 576 00:27:32,430 --> 00:27:35,718 You have asked a straight question and I'll give you a straight answer, 577 00:27:37,070 --> 00:27:39,437 which, however, clearly depends on its context. 578 00:27:40,150 --> 00:27:42,756 In the course of all financial negotiations, 579 00:27:42,830 --> 00:27:45,834 certain provisos have to be pre-cogitated 580 00:27:45,910 --> 00:27:47,036 and pre-conditioned. 581 00:27:47,270 --> 00:27:51,070 Various caveats have to be postulated, designated, investigated, 582 00:27:51,150 --> 00:27:54,359 and specified, and a number of considerations 583 00:27:54,430 --> 00:27:56,114 have to be unequivocally determined, 584 00:27:56,190 --> 00:27:58,238 acknowledged and indeed sometimes even conceded 585 00:27:58,590 --> 00:28:02,595 so that we can facilitate the finalisation of preliminary plans 586 00:28:02,670 --> 00:28:04,911 to create an epistemological basis 587 00:28:05,190 --> 00:28:08,399 for all parties to proceed towards 588 00:28:08,470 --> 00:28:12,520 a mutually beneficial consummation which will acknowledge and safeguard 589 00:28:12,590 --> 00:28:14,877 the vital interests of all the participants 590 00:28:14,950 --> 00:28:17,191 without jeopardising in any material way 591 00:28:17,270 --> 00:28:21,195 the underlying collective benefits ultimately accruing to the signatories 592 00:28:21,270 --> 00:28:24,114 or leaving unresolved any anomalies or irregularities 593 00:28:24,190 --> 00:28:27,592 which could precipitate operational uncertainty down the line, 594 00:28:27,670 --> 00:28:29,354 so that there will be a presumed modicum 595 00:28:29,430 --> 00:28:32,400 of iron-clad reciprocity, which in the great scheme of things 596 00:28:32,470 --> 00:28:34,313 will be to everybody's advantage. 597 00:28:41,110 --> 00:28:42,714 Did that mean yes or no? 598 00:28:44,110 --> 00:28:45,271 Don't you think that yes and no 599 00:28:45,350 --> 00:28:47,717 are rather broad and unspecific in their application? 600 00:28:47,990 --> 00:28:49,037 No! 601 00:28:50,190 --> 00:28:52,955 I want a clear, unambiguous answer. 602 00:28:53,150 --> 00:28:55,198 Certainly. What was the question again? 603 00:28:56,310 --> 00:28:59,632 Is joining the euro a condition of getting the loan? 604 00:28:59,950 --> 00:29:02,351 Well, in the sense that if agreement of the... 605 00:29:02,430 --> 00:29:07,197 Humphrey, I repeat, is joining the euro a condition of getting the loan? 606 00:29:08,270 --> 00:29:09,715 Yes, prime minister.