Yes Minister And The Thick Of It.

[Atheist]

Although an era apart, I think that both these shows were very educational about what really goes on in the world of politics. Any views?

[DTCwordfan]

dated, Atheist, Humphrey et al didn't have to handle No 11 refurbishments, I bet, or left-wing ABers sniping away as if they thought that they were one Jonathan Swift.

[Atheist]

DTC, I was hoping that the word 'politics' wouldn't trigger off knee-jerk comments about 'left-wing ABers'.

[DTCwordfan]

I'm just teasing, Atheist (and not you) - the programme still resonates. See that they have 'To the Manor Born' on now.....

[douglas9401]

An Applebian recovery if ever there was one, up there.^

[jourdain2]

I don't know about 'The Thick Of It', but 'Yes, Minister' is well-beloved. My granddaughter announced that she intends to study Eng. Lit., History and Politics at 'A' level. My first act was to send her the boxed set of 'Yes Minister'.

[DTCwordfan]

what is an Applebian recovery? I was reared in Westmorland an an Applebian recovery would have involved sinking a lot of Appleby's Creamery after a heavy night of Theakstons or Hartley's ales (or both).....

[andy-hughes]

Both are very clever, superbly written and crafted, pinpointing the exact truths and exagerating them to wonderful comic effect.

But a reflection of the world of politics?

Only if you think EastEnders is true about London, Corrie about Manchester, and Emmerdale about rural Yorkshire.

[Spungle]

Yes, it is definitely education and almost beyond parody. I had the privilege of working in Parliament (admittedly some years ago now) and the Yes Minister series were frighteningly accurate. There were many moments when MP's and colleagues would say "That was a Sir Humphrey moment" or simply "Yes Prime Minister!" in reference to the series. I think it would probably scare anyone with a business or professional background how "unprofessional" Westminster can be- the truth of it is that it is packed with a mixture of amateurs, toxic narcissists, downright oddballs, bullies, cranks, lazy scroungers and many people who are absolutely and completely out of their depth, most of whom would have been sacked long since from any corporation and would not be tolerated in the "real world". Also, to be fair, many genuinely decent people who actually do have a desire to make the world a better place. And all supported by a very patient and professional workforce who actually run the country while the politicians think they do! (I would say that, wouldn't I?!)

[DTCwordfan]

sorry I am being thick....Humphrey himself! Some of the antics going down here for G7 could qualify - wish I knew someone in the DT to volunteer a diary for them as I am not bound by the OSA - how daft things can be - for example, you can only get compensation for your business being forced to close down if you (and all your employees) sign the OSA. That's straight-up blackmail by the Government.

[andy-hughes]

Spungle - // I would say that, wouldn't I?! //

Doesn't mean your summary is inaccurate!!

[ToraToraTora]

the thick of it is fine but it's not a patch on Yes Minister.

[naomi24]

Atheist, nothing to do with this question but see here:

https://www.theanswerbank.co.uk/ChatterBank/Question1753575.html

[Atheist]

Thanks, Naomi.