Commentary: ‘Yes’ indeed must-see TV
Venerable BBC show remains relevant to Marlborough and NZ. Commentary from Phil Welch, pictured. Photo: Supplied.
PHIL WELCH
The author is long-time resident with a strong interest in local and central government issues.
The topical article penned by Paul Davidson gave rise to interesting discussion amongst my colleagues, and his comment in his final paragraph to “new Sir Humphrey” and “Yes Councillor” – although many of the younger generation would not appreciate the reference – prompted my own welcome recollections.
I have long followed and, at varying times, been beguiled, confused, entertained, angered, frustrated and disappointed with politics and politicians – both local body and at central level. So, for a little bit of humorous self-indulgence, I have avidly engaged in watching “Yes Minister”, the acclaimed BBC series of the late 1970s, and its successor, “Yes Prime Minister”.
The witty yet extremely topical script of “Yes Minister” is seemingly prophetic as it gives a comedic but credible insight into the every-day workings – or not – of parliamentary services (such that they are); the comical, in-house relationships; the problematic conveying of official messages and party policy; and the associated connivance that goes on behind the supposed straight (but often strained) face of governance.
And this is well before the questionable antics or “entertainment” of Boris, Liz Truss, or some of our own parties (a couple in particular). Perhaps the lead up to last week’s National caucus meeting could be seen to reinforce those views.
Currently screening on what is probably now the fourth replay, recent episodes of “Yes Minister” focused on the extraordinary growth in the public service ranks (sound familiar?) and the term “open government”, an interesting misnomer which had drawn much publicity under the most recent Labour administration.
It’s interesting that such quality, laugh out loud television viewing of decades past could be so applicable in today’s world. It would seem little has changed – that history does repeat – and you would likely agree it would be humorous if it were not so seriously concerning.