Yes Minister

Rumours of a cabinet reshuffle and the possibility of redundancy from his high office anger Jim Hacker, who is already discontented. He starts to consider the offer to become a European Economic Community commissioner, contemplating a new role outside domestic politics.

The Devil You Know is an episode‑type programme, listed under the genre “episode”. It forms part of the wider series that bears the same title and is presented in the usual broadcast format for television. In this instalment, rumours of a cabinet reshuffle and the threat of being made redundant from a senior post stir up a great deal of irritation in Jim Hacker. He’s beginning to entertain the possibility of accepting a proposal to serve as a commissioner for the European Economic Community, an offer that could provide an escape from the domestic turmoil. Hacker’s displeasure stems from the uncertainty surrounding his role, as speculation about a reshuffle threatens his standing. He reflects on how the shift could distance him from the immediate political fray in Westminster, weighing the merits of staying in domestic politics against the allure of an EEC appointment that might open a fresh avenue for his career. Ultimately, the episode centres on Hacker’s internal debate, balancing his frustration over potential dismissal with the attractive prospect of representing his nation at the European level. He’s forced to choose between loyalty to his current office and the prestige of a European appointment, highlighting the tension between personal ambition and political upheaval.