The Hour (2011) s01e06 Episode Script
Episode 6
All my life, I've been a man of peace.
"We had not realised that our government was capable of" "Such folly and of such crookedness.
" Ruth came to me to ask me to help her, and I will not stop helping her until the truth is known.
The KGB have a list circulating.
On this list are the names of young men and women, open to betraying their country.
- She was a Brightstone.
- Who, what? Ruth Elms was a Brightstone.
Mr Brightstone Was there anybody else you recognised? Yes, you, Freddie.
You must tell Mr Lyon to stop investigating the Elms story.
There is not a Soviet agent on my team, the BBC perhaps, but not my team.
- They can't shut us down.
- I've waited my entire life to run a programme like this.
It will not be snatched from me now.
We need to find a way of addressing the suspicion of collusion between Britain and France, and Israel.
Like in a sketch.
I want you to explain why you're throwing away your career for an affair that means nothing, but if you're telling yourself anything other, you're lying.
He's always just on loan and he always comes back.
Um, maybe a little higher? Freddie? Your mystery guest, he will be here, won't he? If not, I have that bore from the British Communist Party talking about the fall of Hungary and the effect on its members.
- Freddie? - Let's hope so.
The footage of the demonstration, I want it in my hand in less than five minutes, Freddie! What's the map for? Um, Admiral Green, the logistics of a land invasion.
- Fact not opinion, Bel.
- Of course.
- What's Ron doing with a bookies' board? - Isaac's sketch.
It's suicide.
It's satire.
- Satire is comment.
- Clarence, what would you have me do? I have one piece of footage of a demonstration on which we cannot pass comment, a reasonably dry interview with Admiral Green and coverage of the American elections the result of which will not be called until after we are off air.
Freddie has an idea mid-programme.
I have 60 minutes to fill.
No! The last 24 hours have been an exercise in how to air a news programme that is taking place in less than two hours, when one can't discuss, analyse or debate the news.
I am allowing you to take this programme to the edge of acceptability, so have your maps if you must, but Isaac's sketch does not play tonight.
Is it not our duty as journalists, to present balanced news, frankly, fearlessly and reasonably? Life is about compromise.
The country is at war.
We cannot show dissent, we cannot show News! On a news programme! It's absurd! Hector, sweetheart, have we been swimming? You two really need to sort this out.
You've missed a bit.
Sissy! Coffee in my office now, please! He slept in his office again, which by the way, is MY perk.
Two nights.
Ah, Sissy, just the girl.
Can you type up this copy for me? - Thank you.
- Have you seen Isaac? I typed up his script again, he keeps changing it.
He's ever such a perfectionist.
I've done the best I can.
I cut back the footage of the demonstration, removed the police officer attacking that man Clarence wants to cut Isaac's sketch.
Every broadsheet is raising the issue of collusion.
I said that.
But if we say that Britain colluded with Israel and France in an illegal war to get the canal back we're effectively saying Eden lied to his Cabinet, his party and the Commons? Yes.
But we don't say that.
We just acknowledge as the rest of the world is doing that it is an intelligent possibility.
If we use the word "collusion", even in a sketch, then that's treason, isn't it? They could take us off air.
Put the policeman back in.
Tell Isaac to take that hat off in case Clarence sees him.
Oh, Christ! Hector! I'm sorry.
You can't sleep in your office.
Right.
You need to go home to Marnie.
Right.
Aren't you going to say anything else? I love you.
Is that the best you can do? - For the moment, yes.
- What does that actually mean? - It's pretty self-explanatory.
- It isn't.
It really, really isn't.
Explain! I'm sorry, you love me.
But is this a proposal? Ooh, how exciting.
When were you thinking, June? Why are you doing this? Because you would want me to play bridge and stop working here, the place that I love, doing the job that I have waited my whole life for.
I'm not asking you to marry me! So what were you asking me? You want me to stay as your mistress? Oh, it's heaps of fun having a mistress.
Heaps of fun being a mistress.
It's just what every marriage needs.
- I have done it once too often.
- Enough! I don't want to be a mistress any more.
And I, I'm certainly not waiting to be anyone's wife.
You need a wife.
Have you seen Freddie? - No.
- Shouldn't you be down on the floor? Excuse me.
Please follow me.
- Freddie.
- I know, I know, I heard My office, if you wouldn't mind.
Well, I'll just These gentlemen work for Her Majesty's Government.
Really? They wish to ask you a few questions.
I hope that is acceptable to you, Mr Lyon.
- Do I have a choice? - We note you didn't do National Service, Mr Lyon.
- No.
- We've been aware of your activities for some time.
- We understand you have been pursuing the death of Peter Darrall.
- Yes.
And that you've approached an eminent peer and his family as part of your investigation.
As you're aware, they have suffered a recent loss.
I'm sure they would prefer to be left alone in their grief.
Yeah, you're very sure.
Thankfully I have been given reassurance by your editor that you have now closed your investigation, that there was no story to be found.
FREDDIE LAUGHS Is that it? Is that how it works? Am I being signed off? I suppose there are worse ways to go.
Robbery, heart attack or suicide, I've heard.
Is that true? Please forgive Mr Lyon, he's very, very tired.
None of us has slept more than a few hours over the last few weeks and we do have a programme to get out.
I am impressed.
I wasn't sure if any of you could talk.
Well, time is moving on.
Mr Fendley has kindly vouched for your good character.
We will not bother you again.
Did you kill her? Did you murder Ruth Elms? Freddie.
Good afternoon, Mr Lyon.
Mr Fendley.
Goodbye.
- Is that really it? - They are merely collectors.
They collect information and pass it onto colleagues who verify or deny what they have found.
They are seekers of truth in their own way.
I've been following this story for months.
With you silently encouraging me, Clarence.
And now I am quietly asking you to stop.
I had to ask Douglas to use his considerable influence in Whitehall to get them off your back.
- I'm on a list! - Ssh.
Close the door.
What list? Of potential KGB recruits.
Brightstones, they call them.
Revert to Brightstone.
Was Peter Darrall giving someone the nod to find a new Brightstone to replace him? What, you've seen this list? No.
But I've spoken to someone who has.
Someone who would be willing to come on the show, tonight, maybe even talk about Ruth's death.
The Elms case is tragic, but it is not news.
It's time to terminate it.
Terminate? Too personal a story.
What is the news if it's not personal, Clarence? It's all personal, otherwise why write about it? If it doesn't matter to you personally then what kind of person are you? I'm on that list.
So was Ruth.
Someone put us there.
Sit down, Freddie.
What I'm about to tell you, you can't reveal it, as there's a mole at the BBC.
But it might help you lay the Elms case to rest.
In March, I received a transcript of a telephone call between a high-ranking member of the government and a key operative in the Secret Service.
It confirms an unofficial order bypassing the Foreign Office, going straight to MI6 to bring down Nasser by whatever means they can.
To assassinate him? In the transcript, two agents are mentioned.
Peter Darrall and Tom Kish.
Freddie, Nasser's attempted assassination is a bigger story.
I'm asking you to draw a line under this.
You are at risk.
Can't you see that? KNOCK ON DOOR Have you seen Hector? I've written him a new intro for Eisenhower.
Lix, I need you to telephone your man in Cairo.
- I need you to ask him to dig deeper.
- What's wrong, you're sweating? I need to know everything about that trip Kish and Darrall made to Cairo.
What were they doing there? Please, just do it.
All right, all right.
I just need some time.
- Everyone on set now, please.
- Yes.
- We're live in 20 minutes! - We're coming! Ron, can you move the top right? - Oi, Billy Wilder, where do you want this? - Oh, perhaps behind the flat.
- It needs chalking up.
- No one said anything about chalking up.
I'll do it.
Isaac, can you wrap it up? Clarence will be here any minute.
Marnie.
Oh.
Hector needed a clean shirt.
And suit.
I was afraid that he might not have changed it all week.
It's that way.
Oh, good luck.
For tonight.
Daddy's very excited wondering how it's all going to play.
I'm sure he'll be brilliant Hector.
Ron, can I? It's fine just don't worry about it.
15 minutes, people.
15 minutes! I wasn't sure if you'd prefer your navy or grey, so I took a decision.
What are you doing here? We tried the Dorchester, Savoy, Claridges and you don't seem to be staying anywhere.
Have you even shaved today? There's some clean undergarments and socks in the bag, and a fresh razor.
Shall I just just put it here? Yes.
It's fine.
Look, don't flap.
I do hope it didn't get terribly crushed in the underground.
Are you coming home? Camera check, five minutes Your toothbrush, there's a toothbrush.
Thank you.
I said I'd meet Daddy upstairs any minute now, so Douglas has invited us for drinks.
Daddy thinks he's worried, that he might have got wind of something.
Apparently a number of opportunities have been opening up for you.
He can't believe how silly you've been, - the damage you could have caused.
- Marnie I will give you today, Hector, but if you don't come home I will divorce you.
There's only so much humiliation one girl can take.
Oh.
There he is.
Daddy? RINGING TONE PHONE RINGS You're all right? Sissy's calling last checks.
She's dumped you.
It gets better.
A couple of months, you won't feel like slitting your wrists every time you see her.
You should write this down.
- I'm sure it'd make a good novel.
- Already tried.
You just smile and say your lines.
The rest I'm sure you can sort later.
You patronising bastard.
I proved myself over the last three months, more than proved myself, - and just cos I haven't got your wit - Oh, self pity.
.
.
your banter and your dexterity, your armoury of words, designed to floor, to floor me.
- Just cos I'm too polite to ask provocative questions - And again.
Shut up! You'll, um, need to prep for another interview.
Mid-programme.
- With who? - I've jotted down a few questions.
Oh, my God.
Does Bel know? She's humouring me she doesn't, but she does.
He's not going to answer these questions, - and I'm not going to ask them.
- Fine.
There's one or two that's all right.
Do you think I'm a weak person, Hector? What? I've never been to war, I've never fought for anything You fight every day, Freddie.
Weak's not the word I'd use.
My father always said a hero is a man who's too afraid to run away.
If you want we can, um .
.
run through those together on the floor.
Freddie, I'm going to give you all your birthdays, Christmases and holidays at once.
There's a story circulating the foreign press.
It's all conjecture, but in May Nasser's dentist was approached with a bribe to poison Nasser.
Two MI6 operatives met with him, posing as British diplomats.
I know.
Freddie, you need to hear this.
Apparently apparently they had a female companion with them.
Pretty girl, blonde, well educated.
- No.
- Freddie, it was Ruth.
She was the bait.
It seems as though there was nothing she wouldn't have done for Peter Darrall.
She was working with them, Freddie.
I'm sorry.
Hector, how did you get on? LOUDSPEAKER: All staff on The Hour to studio D, please! Five minute introduction, factual report on the Suez demonstration, intercut with footage, then we're back to the studio for military analysis of the ground invasion with Admiral Green - see if he's here yet.
- Lix? - Move on to coverage of the United States.
Montgomery does general assessment of the election then canvasses opinion of the wider political landscape.
- Isaac's sketch - Miss Rowley, five minutes.
Clear the set, please, five minutes! Mark? Thank you.
Why's Isaac got a moustache? Er, Guy Fawkes.
That was yesterday.
LAUGHTER Extraordinary technology THEY CHATTER INAUDIBLY Yes.
I want them off my set.
We'll be watching from the Executive bar upstairs.
- That's meant to comfort me? - Good luck.
Clarence? Mr Lyon.
You're very chirpy tonight.
Well, one must remain optimistic.
Wonderful piece this morning in the Daily Express, rallying around our Prime Minister in the midst of such sniping.
I bought 12 copies, handed them out.
Boosted party morale.
Nothing like rearranging the deckchairs as the hull starts to tip.
Will you ever tire of such cynicism? Hope you're cosying up to Macmillan.
Be terribly cold for you when this is all over.
Where will you go when all the dirty secrets come out? One word of dissent in this time of war and They shot deserters for less.
Freddie, see you upstairs afterwards for a drink? Ringside seats.
Mr Lyon, time.
- I feel sick.
- Don't be wet.
Hector.
Douglas invited me down.
To keep an eye on me? SHERWIN CHUCKLES Marnie insisted.
Thought you might need the support tonight.
Mr Madden, they're waiting.
That's fine, thank you.
Cigarette out, please, sir.
She's beside herself.
This is not the time.
Do you have any idea what you are risking here? I couldn't care less what antics you're embroiled in in your private life, just don't bring them into your marriage.
You have only one of those, Hector, and one career.
Now, you make them both work or neither will.
Don't tell me what to do, Wallace.
I married your daughter, not you.
Don't get ahead of yourself, Hector.
See your limits, like the rest of us do.
Success is in your hands.
Think about where your loyalties lie.
Don't be ashamed to let yourself down, now you've got this far.
HE SIGHS So, Admiral, you will notice two lights, two cameras.
- When the light turns red.
- Yes, yes, I look Mr Madden will introduce you before you give your presentation.
- Admiral Green, delighted you could join us tonight.
- Very good.
- Ron will show you where you're sitting.
- Righty-ho.
Hurry up, Daddy, it's almost starting.
There we are.
- Um, Clarence.
- Thank you.
- Is your guest here yet? - No.
And a penitent communist won't cut it.
He will if you don't fill that slot, Freddie.
- I am serious, I have really stuck my neck out for you.
- He'll come.
What's wrong? - Tell me.
- Nothing.
He'll come.
If he's not here by the end of the second slot, then Ron, cue up our communist chap for the last slot if I give you the nod.
Are you coming up? Moneypenny.
Whatever happens tonight, we, um we mustn't regret a minute of it.
Um, good luck, everyone.
Let's make this an extraordinary show for extraordinary times.
And, Ron, keep the bloody boom out of shot.
LAUGHTER Ladies and gentlemen, are we ready? - Oh, Angus, please.
- Thank you.
Best seat in the house.
You got a bit of glue on you.
Do you think the moustache is too much? No, it's very dashing.
- Break a leg.
- Hope not.
- No, no, it's just what you say when - No, no, I know, yes.
Sorry, funny.
- Freddie - All present and correct.
You know they put donkeys in with racehorses to calm them down.
You all right? Fine.
Standby for count down.
- Will you be able to see? - Yes.
Wonderful team effort.
I do hope it doesn't all go to waste.
Five .
.
four .
.
three .
.
two .
.
one.
Go straight to studio.
Good evening.
Welcome to The Hour in this most extraordinary week.
In the last seven days, Britain and France have invaded Egypt.
A vast military operation is underway there, and we are fortunate to have Admiral Green with us here - one of the leading experts in tactical warfare.
- Admiral Green, thank you for joining us tonight.
- Thank you.
- That's the wrong camera.
- Wrong camera! Wrong camera! Wrong camera.
- And we have this very handy map to demonstrate.
- Yes.
Would you like to show us exactly how the French - and British invasion unfolded? - Absolutely.
At 05:15 hours yesterday, British airborne forces were dropped on Gamil airbase, five miles west of Port Said.
After a fierce fight, they successfully took the airfield, while French airborne troops landed south of Port Said.
Certainly efficient.
This success paves the way for advance on military targets further south.
Standby on the Eisenhower election campaign - how we doing? Two minutes 13.
In your view, how well planned was this operation? It's impressive, the speed with which it's been organised - commendable.
Yes.
Hear hear! And it's our duty to continue until the whole of the Canal Zone is once more under British and French control.
Nut? Yes, why not? This is the only way to bring stability.
Let's hope so.
- Thank you very much, Admiral.
- Thank you very much.
So far, so good.
And now it's over to America, with news coming in that Eisenhower has taken Texas.
Here is a report from our man in Washington, Robert Montgomery, who sent this from the Election Trail.
Thank you.
MONTGOMERY: 'Certainly canvassing opinion it is clear 'that Eisenhower seems on course to win.
'But there are those who believe his surge in popularity has been 'in part bolstered by his refusal to be drawn into the crisis in Suez.
' AMERICAN INTERVIEWEE: 'Your Prime Minister may have - 'defended Suez in your economic -interest.
' - Oh, Christ.
'But from an American perspective, well, we'd be asking questions.
' Clarence? 'That's why I voted for Eisenhower, 'because he kept the hell out of there.
' Whose idea was this? Views expressed by foreign nationals do not contravene the rule.
HE SIGHS The protests in London are in response to events in Suez, and our country is divided.
Oh, God, what next? - We've been on the streets of London this week - Stand by, TC.
- And this is what we saw - Cue TC.
We're standing in a side street by Trafalgar Square.
You can see the crowds behind me.
"Law Not War" is the message they are taking to Downing Street today.
You can hear the crowds chanting, "one, two, three, four, "we won't fight in Eden's war," as they snake their way from every corner along Whitehall.
I met a man who'd come down from Carlisle this morning, another from Lincolnshire Come back on the sound levels a bit.
Time? 12 minutes 14 seconds.
REPORTER: Madam, I notice you're wearing medals.
May I ask you which regiment? Royal East Kent Regiment.
- He looks nervous tonight.
- Mmmm.
REPORTER: Your husband's? Son, and I don't want to lose another, not that I don't know what we're fighting for.
I notice that you've brought his daughter here today.
She never knew him, I I want her to remember today.
'If Sir Anthony Eden is sincere 'in what he is saying, and he may be' - Um, anyone for a top-up? - No, thank you.
'.
.
If he is sincere in what he is saying, then he is too stupid to be a Prime Minister!' CROWD CHEERS ON TV Good on the Green interview.
- I would've been harder.
- You weren't interviewing.
Get the communist chap ready.
I can't wait any longer, Freddie.
He's not coming! Where are you going? Let me make one more phone call.
Isaac, get ready.
We're going straight to the sketch.
TV: 'The police have gone bleeding mad.
They're just hitting out at anybody.
'A woman's on the floor.
No-one's helping her.
' 'It's becoming heated.
You can see people running all over the place.
'There are police on horseback desperately trying to control the fray.
' A little harsh.
No laws broken yet, Angus.
Maybe I'd better have that top-up.
Time.
Five.
Four.
Three.
Two.
One.
Back to studio.
PHONE RINGS OU It was Ovid who said a horse never runs so fast as when he has other horses to catch up and outpace.
- What now? - 'Here at The Hour, we thought what better way to view the fast-unfolding events of recent days 'than by our very own day at the races?' And what a beautiful day it is, as punters place their last bets for this key race.
You can see them lining up at the post.
One or two are certanly frisky.
There's Colonel Nasser in the red, white and black Sketch? You never said anything about a sketch.
There's the stars and stripes.
President Eisenhower, he's got the blinkers on, but his nose is set.
Yes, Eisenhower's hoping for electoral victory today.
And from where we're standing, it could be any man's race.
And they're off! It's a good start for Rule Britannia and Mademoiselle Francaise, heading off at a steady pace.
What is he saying? I think it's a play on horse racing, Daddy.
You see, there's rather witty odds on Rule Britannia and Mademoiselle Francaise to win.
It's a bloody farce.
What fun! And there's no stopping the Colonel.
He's a good nose ahead.
And the United Nations are clearly flagging Fall back a bit.
Eisenhower's fallen back, his eye on the long game.
Amy, will you double check that there are no messages for me? He's threatening to invade.
He's invading.
Colonel Nasser is not happy.
The Israeli is in suspect form.
Look out, here come the American Press.
And the American Press are voicing concern.
Two riderless horses are moving in.
Man Of Peace and Illegal War.
Rule Britannia and Mademoiselle Francaise are clearly astounded.
Looks like Man Of Peace will undoubtedly win this race.
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, this is mayhem.
I've never seen the like.
It is mayhem today! Illegal War will now take over Man Of Peace to cross the line.
I specifically said no sketch! The steward is waving his flag.
Just bring the bloody lights down.
.
.
in a fury - there's sure to be an enquiry.
Stop it.
Bring the lights down if you have to.
Now! Ladies and gentleman, the race has been pulled as the riderless horses cross the line in a photo finish.
So, this is the BBC? Where do you want me? Ladies and gentlemen, all bets are off.
There are no winners today.
Bring the lights up on Hector.
Are you completely, completely mad? I said no sketch.
I specifically said no sketch! What the hell you think you're doing? Trying to keep your show on air.
We're still live.
Stand by with the Communist Party interview.
Counting down.
Five, four, three, two, one.
We're joined in the studio by a member of the British Communist Party, who is Different interview.
Get our comrade out.
I'm terribly, sorry, ladies and gentlemen, that, er that interview won't be happening.
- And what do we have next? - This is my programme.
- You left tonight in my hands.
- Bel, dear, you might want to see this.
Thattaboy.
I must apologise for the technical fault.
There are gremlins everywhere.
But that will not stop us tonight.
Our next guest, Lord Elms of Framlingham What was Hector thinking of? This could ruin him.
What's he doing here? '.
.
Is a Conservative peer in The House of Lords' I don't know.
I'll find out.
.
.
in light of the momentous events of the last week.
The House of Lords, of course, is one of our oldest institutions and, er - Is he bottling it? - Yes.
.
.
keeping an eye on the actions and decisions of Government PHONE RINGS Yes.
.
.
Bringing a wealth of experience, making laws, legislation, public policy I'll try to find out.
You're going to have to explain to Douglas why no-one was informed that Lord Elms would be joining us on the programme tonight.
Keep going.
perspective on legislation.
Tonight, Lord Elms will be interviewed by my colleague.
Mr Frederick Lyon, our home affairs reporter, who has been keeping a very close eye on events.
- Lord Elms will have no doubt have something to say - Christ.
.
.
about the situation, and in particular Ron, keep it going.
about this government.
Camera two.
Um good evening, Lord Elms.
- Thank you for joining us tonight.
- Thank you for asking me.
You have been a member of the House of Lords for many years.
Yes.
I also served in both world wars.
And for several years, I practised at the bar.
And you've known Sir Anthony Eden for many years.
Is that correct? - Yes.
- And what is your opinion of the Prime Minister? II have believed him an honourable man.
I've supported the Prime Minister in the past.
And what of now, Lord Elms? I ask you as someone who has believed and for many years, served this government.
What is your view of the government today? I find that all that I believed, all that I held true has been turned upside down in these last few fragile months.
I see.
And why is that, sir? I don't care what you do, but you shut this programme down now.
Did you hear that, Clarence? - 'I find myself - I'll call presentation now.
.
.
At an impasse, with a sense of loss so great, one could call it a crisis of my own.
Put me through to Presentation.
It's a personal crisis, sir? A story that is close to you? But it is not simply personal.
It's a loss of trust, a loss of belief and more, a loss of my own ability to judge what is true any more.
Is it not the case, Lord Elms, that it is a personal experience that has led to this doubt? All that I know is that when the authority of a government is challenged, that government will do everything in its power to ensure they are not exposed as the liars and murderers that they are.
Liars and murderers? These are strong words, Lord Elms.
Yes.
I do not use them lightly.
And what was it that made you so radically change your view? I have come to understand that it is possible, Frederick, to be a patriot and at the same time question and judge the wisdom and rightness of the government in power.
Ladies and gentlemen, if we cannot debate that which troubles our society, and more importantly troubles our government, then we cannot in all honesty call ourselves a democracy.
If we cannot question our leaders as they embark on what has been called an illegal military action, an action publicly opposed by the United States government Shut it down now.
And the countries of the United Nations Security Council I want it off now.
If we cannot reasonably and intelligently query Shut down The Hour.
.
.
about the rightness of an action that appears at heart to be deceitful Do it now.
Then we are not a free - You're fired.
Right.
I expected nothing less.
For God's sake, turn that camera off.
36 minutes and 39 seconds.
It's not bad.
Lord Elms, your car is waiting for you.
Thank you.
Lord Elms did you realise how far Peter Darrall had led Ruth? You know, Frederick, when you were first evacuated to us, you were nearly 12.
We sent our driver to the station to pick you up.
It was only many years later that he told me you chatted all the way to the house, insisted on sitting next to him.
You thought he was me.
You didn't see his rough hands.
You only saw a man you could talk about cars with.
I've thought often of this and what a disappointment we must have been to you.
I must have been.
So stiff.
Always sitting in the back, away from the real conversation, when all you wanted was to sit in the front and talk.
I realise it's what Ruthie longed for from me.
Such discoveries.
All too late.
We should have talked to her.
Not let her stray so far.
It all comes back to Ruth.
That's why MI6 killed her.
It all comes back to Ruthie.
I'll drive you home.
I have my car.
I can drive my wife home.
Daddy, I'll be fine.
Shall we speak tomorrow, Hector? There's a lot to talk about.
You made the right decision tonight.
I made a decision tonight, Wallace.
Well, you know where I am.
- Five minutes.
- Hector Wait downstairs.
You're coming home? Please convey my commiserations to Miss Rowley.
For her programme tonight.
I can't go back to the mailroom.
I can't.
I can't bear it.
The trick is to get very, very drunk and then dance until you're sick.
Fancy a drink? I'll just get my coat.
Mr Lyon? Well, at least you can't say your copy's boring any more.
Whisky's finished.
- Lix, coming? - No, not tonight.
Tonight, I just want to go home.
Bravo, sweetheart.
Today you reminded me why I do this job.
You bottled that last interview.
Ambition over integrity, Hector, well done.
Freddie needed a chance.
Liar.
Do you think it's over? Yes.
- I'm sorry.
- Don't be.
I take nothing back.
You're going back to Marnie.
What if we left now? What if we just went? You and me.
To France, or No, I thought not too.
Apparently, there are there are openings in the Natural History department.
- Maybe I'll see you there.
- Mmm.
Did we go too far? Quite possibly.
Most definitely.
Good work, James.
You too, Moneypenny.
Where where's Clarence? It's over, Freddie! Clarence? Mr Lyon.
We were just talking about you.
You really have outdone yourself tonight.
Could you do any more to undermine the future of this programme? Really? I thought we showed restraint.
We could have been far more controversial.
What do you mean? To reveal the government's unofficial attempts to destroy Colonel Nasser might destabilise the country at a time of war, and we wouldn't do that to an already weak Prime Minister.
Unsubstantiated and outrageous accusations.
Who the hell do you think you are? Unofficial conversations have taken place between the government and secret service, alluding to an attempt to assassinate Nasser.
Ruth Elms knew this.
That is why they killed her.
What does he mean? - Clarence.
- I have absolutely no idea.
Clarence, he needs to know.
Know what? My apologies.
It's been a a long night.
Hmm.
Well, I'm sure it will all look very different in the morning.
Clarence.
Clarence! Stupid, stupid, stupid, stupid, stupid boy! What you did tonight was sabotage.
Everything that I have worked for the last 30 years, gone.
- It was the truth.
- The truth? Righteous enthusiasm disguised as integrity? Together, you and the entire team of The Hour have dismantled the core of everything we have built.
Your positions are untenable.
You could not have disappointed me more, Freddie.
I told you about that transcript because What? - What was I meant to do with it? - Run it.
Just bloody run it, Freddie.
That's all you had to do.
You told me not to say anything! When have you listened to anybody who asked you to be quiet? You normally broadcast it to the world! - And slander the whole government? - Yes.
Why do you think I brought you in as part of this team, Freddie? Because I saw something in you I once saw in myself.
The courage of my convictions.
If you were planning to expose us, me, yourself in that way, at least make it worth it.
Save your speeches, because they don't work.
You blew the story, Freddie.
You, no, you, worse than that, you teased us with a story that you did not deliver.
I gave you the story of your career, and you ran with a personal one.
You, you're useless to me now.
I cannot look at you.
I can't.
You're no longer an asset.
It's you.
I'm your Brightstone.
What? You put me on that list.
Clarence.
You put me on that list, like Darrall put Ruth.
"There's a Soviet agent working within the BBC, Freddie.
" That's why you burnt the cigarette paper, in case they traced it back to you.
It's not me they're watching, is it? It's you.
The click on the telephone.
It's not us they're listening to, it's you.
Tell me the truth.
Freddie, I Are you the Soviet agent working within the BBC? No comment.
Perhaps I might rephrase that.
My apologies.
In June, a respected academic and Soviet spy, Peter Darrall, was murdered in London.
Unfortunately, he was unable to do his drop that day to inform his what? Colleague? Associate? You.
.
.
that he'd been rumbled and perhaps it'd be better if he "revert to Brightstone".
Find himself a new agent.
Did you have anyone particular in mind? Perhaps me? Mr Fendley, I must ask you to reply.
The nation is waiting.
There was a time, Freddie, when .
.
when a man had to find other ways to defy his government.
This was mine.
My God, Clarence.
Join the bloody British Communist Party if you will, raise a bloody flag if you must, but a spy?! Why? Did you not see what erm, Russia has just done in Hungary? That pass you by? Clarence! I don't know why they don't suspect us more.
Journalists.
We're thrust into world events, life-changing events and they expect us not to be changed.
Well, it changed me.
It changed my view of the world.
Suddenly it all suddenly it all made sense.
But to betray your country? - Was there really no better way? - To defend what I believed in? I didn't think so.
Not until these last few months.
Not until now.
Not until this programme.
Hope at the last hour.
You're a spy.
What do I do now? What any good journalist would do.
You you run it.
Tell the world what I am.
For Ruth.
BEL: Freddie.
Is, is everything? I must go home to, to Edith.
Good night.
Freddie? Are you all right? Do you trust me? - What? - Would I betray you? No.
Yes.
Big betrayal or small betrayal? - I'd never betray you.
- No.
- I'm a good person.
- Yes.
Do you trust me? More than anyone else.
Not good enough.
Missed the mark again.
I hate you.
I hate you.
HE LAUGHS I hate you too.
C'mon.
We've got a story to write.
Text by Red Bee Media Ltd
"We had not realised that our government was capable of" "Such folly and of such crookedness.
" Ruth came to me to ask me to help her, and I will not stop helping her until the truth is known.
The KGB have a list circulating.
On this list are the names of young men and women, open to betraying their country.
- She was a Brightstone.
- Who, what? Ruth Elms was a Brightstone.
Mr Brightstone Was there anybody else you recognised? Yes, you, Freddie.
You must tell Mr Lyon to stop investigating the Elms story.
There is not a Soviet agent on my team, the BBC perhaps, but not my team.
- They can't shut us down.
- I've waited my entire life to run a programme like this.
It will not be snatched from me now.
We need to find a way of addressing the suspicion of collusion between Britain and France, and Israel.
Like in a sketch.
I want you to explain why you're throwing away your career for an affair that means nothing, but if you're telling yourself anything other, you're lying.
He's always just on loan and he always comes back.
Um, maybe a little higher? Freddie? Your mystery guest, he will be here, won't he? If not, I have that bore from the British Communist Party talking about the fall of Hungary and the effect on its members.
- Freddie? - Let's hope so.
The footage of the demonstration, I want it in my hand in less than five minutes, Freddie! What's the map for? Um, Admiral Green, the logistics of a land invasion.
- Fact not opinion, Bel.
- Of course.
- What's Ron doing with a bookies' board? - Isaac's sketch.
It's suicide.
It's satire.
- Satire is comment.
- Clarence, what would you have me do? I have one piece of footage of a demonstration on which we cannot pass comment, a reasonably dry interview with Admiral Green and coverage of the American elections the result of which will not be called until after we are off air.
Freddie has an idea mid-programme.
I have 60 minutes to fill.
No! The last 24 hours have been an exercise in how to air a news programme that is taking place in less than two hours, when one can't discuss, analyse or debate the news.
I am allowing you to take this programme to the edge of acceptability, so have your maps if you must, but Isaac's sketch does not play tonight.
Is it not our duty as journalists, to present balanced news, frankly, fearlessly and reasonably? Life is about compromise.
The country is at war.
We cannot show dissent, we cannot show News! On a news programme! It's absurd! Hector, sweetheart, have we been swimming? You two really need to sort this out.
You've missed a bit.
Sissy! Coffee in my office now, please! He slept in his office again, which by the way, is MY perk.
Two nights.
Ah, Sissy, just the girl.
Can you type up this copy for me? - Thank you.
- Have you seen Isaac? I typed up his script again, he keeps changing it.
He's ever such a perfectionist.
I've done the best I can.
I cut back the footage of the demonstration, removed the police officer attacking that man Clarence wants to cut Isaac's sketch.
Every broadsheet is raising the issue of collusion.
I said that.
But if we say that Britain colluded with Israel and France in an illegal war to get the canal back we're effectively saying Eden lied to his Cabinet, his party and the Commons? Yes.
But we don't say that.
We just acknowledge as the rest of the world is doing that it is an intelligent possibility.
If we use the word "collusion", even in a sketch, then that's treason, isn't it? They could take us off air.
Put the policeman back in.
Tell Isaac to take that hat off in case Clarence sees him.
Oh, Christ! Hector! I'm sorry.
You can't sleep in your office.
Right.
You need to go home to Marnie.
Right.
Aren't you going to say anything else? I love you.
Is that the best you can do? - For the moment, yes.
- What does that actually mean? - It's pretty self-explanatory.
- It isn't.
It really, really isn't.
Explain! I'm sorry, you love me.
But is this a proposal? Ooh, how exciting.
When were you thinking, June? Why are you doing this? Because you would want me to play bridge and stop working here, the place that I love, doing the job that I have waited my whole life for.
I'm not asking you to marry me! So what were you asking me? You want me to stay as your mistress? Oh, it's heaps of fun having a mistress.
Heaps of fun being a mistress.
It's just what every marriage needs.
- I have done it once too often.
- Enough! I don't want to be a mistress any more.
And I, I'm certainly not waiting to be anyone's wife.
You need a wife.
Have you seen Freddie? - No.
- Shouldn't you be down on the floor? Excuse me.
Please follow me.
- Freddie.
- I know, I know, I heard My office, if you wouldn't mind.
Well, I'll just These gentlemen work for Her Majesty's Government.
Really? They wish to ask you a few questions.
I hope that is acceptable to you, Mr Lyon.
- Do I have a choice? - We note you didn't do National Service, Mr Lyon.
- No.
- We've been aware of your activities for some time.
- We understand you have been pursuing the death of Peter Darrall.
- Yes.
And that you've approached an eminent peer and his family as part of your investigation.
As you're aware, they have suffered a recent loss.
I'm sure they would prefer to be left alone in their grief.
Yeah, you're very sure.
Thankfully I have been given reassurance by your editor that you have now closed your investigation, that there was no story to be found.
FREDDIE LAUGHS Is that it? Is that how it works? Am I being signed off? I suppose there are worse ways to go.
Robbery, heart attack or suicide, I've heard.
Is that true? Please forgive Mr Lyon, he's very, very tired.
None of us has slept more than a few hours over the last few weeks and we do have a programme to get out.
I am impressed.
I wasn't sure if any of you could talk.
Well, time is moving on.
Mr Fendley has kindly vouched for your good character.
We will not bother you again.
Did you kill her? Did you murder Ruth Elms? Freddie.
Good afternoon, Mr Lyon.
Mr Fendley.
Goodbye.
- Is that really it? - They are merely collectors.
They collect information and pass it onto colleagues who verify or deny what they have found.
They are seekers of truth in their own way.
I've been following this story for months.
With you silently encouraging me, Clarence.
And now I am quietly asking you to stop.
I had to ask Douglas to use his considerable influence in Whitehall to get them off your back.
- I'm on a list! - Ssh.
Close the door.
What list? Of potential KGB recruits.
Brightstones, they call them.
Revert to Brightstone.
Was Peter Darrall giving someone the nod to find a new Brightstone to replace him? What, you've seen this list? No.
But I've spoken to someone who has.
Someone who would be willing to come on the show, tonight, maybe even talk about Ruth's death.
The Elms case is tragic, but it is not news.
It's time to terminate it.
Terminate? Too personal a story.
What is the news if it's not personal, Clarence? It's all personal, otherwise why write about it? If it doesn't matter to you personally then what kind of person are you? I'm on that list.
So was Ruth.
Someone put us there.
Sit down, Freddie.
What I'm about to tell you, you can't reveal it, as there's a mole at the BBC.
But it might help you lay the Elms case to rest.
In March, I received a transcript of a telephone call between a high-ranking member of the government and a key operative in the Secret Service.
It confirms an unofficial order bypassing the Foreign Office, going straight to MI6 to bring down Nasser by whatever means they can.
To assassinate him? In the transcript, two agents are mentioned.
Peter Darrall and Tom Kish.
Freddie, Nasser's attempted assassination is a bigger story.
I'm asking you to draw a line under this.
You are at risk.
Can't you see that? KNOCK ON DOOR Have you seen Hector? I've written him a new intro for Eisenhower.
Lix, I need you to telephone your man in Cairo.
- I need you to ask him to dig deeper.
- What's wrong, you're sweating? I need to know everything about that trip Kish and Darrall made to Cairo.
What were they doing there? Please, just do it.
All right, all right.
I just need some time.
- Everyone on set now, please.
- Yes.
- We're live in 20 minutes! - We're coming! Ron, can you move the top right? - Oi, Billy Wilder, where do you want this? - Oh, perhaps behind the flat.
- It needs chalking up.
- No one said anything about chalking up.
I'll do it.
Isaac, can you wrap it up? Clarence will be here any minute.
Marnie.
Oh.
Hector needed a clean shirt.
And suit.
I was afraid that he might not have changed it all week.
It's that way.
Oh, good luck.
For tonight.
Daddy's very excited wondering how it's all going to play.
I'm sure he'll be brilliant Hector.
Ron, can I? It's fine just don't worry about it.
15 minutes, people.
15 minutes! I wasn't sure if you'd prefer your navy or grey, so I took a decision.
What are you doing here? We tried the Dorchester, Savoy, Claridges and you don't seem to be staying anywhere.
Have you even shaved today? There's some clean undergarments and socks in the bag, and a fresh razor.
Shall I just just put it here? Yes.
It's fine.
Look, don't flap.
I do hope it didn't get terribly crushed in the underground.
Are you coming home? Camera check, five minutes Your toothbrush, there's a toothbrush.
Thank you.
I said I'd meet Daddy upstairs any minute now, so Douglas has invited us for drinks.
Daddy thinks he's worried, that he might have got wind of something.
Apparently a number of opportunities have been opening up for you.
He can't believe how silly you've been, - the damage you could have caused.
- Marnie I will give you today, Hector, but if you don't come home I will divorce you.
There's only so much humiliation one girl can take.
Oh.
There he is.
Daddy? RINGING TONE PHONE RINGS You're all right? Sissy's calling last checks.
She's dumped you.
It gets better.
A couple of months, you won't feel like slitting your wrists every time you see her.
You should write this down.
- I'm sure it'd make a good novel.
- Already tried.
You just smile and say your lines.
The rest I'm sure you can sort later.
You patronising bastard.
I proved myself over the last three months, more than proved myself, - and just cos I haven't got your wit - Oh, self pity.
.
.
your banter and your dexterity, your armoury of words, designed to floor, to floor me.
- Just cos I'm too polite to ask provocative questions - And again.
Shut up! You'll, um, need to prep for another interview.
Mid-programme.
- With who? - I've jotted down a few questions.
Oh, my God.
Does Bel know? She's humouring me she doesn't, but she does.
He's not going to answer these questions, - and I'm not going to ask them.
- Fine.
There's one or two that's all right.
Do you think I'm a weak person, Hector? What? I've never been to war, I've never fought for anything You fight every day, Freddie.
Weak's not the word I'd use.
My father always said a hero is a man who's too afraid to run away.
If you want we can, um .
.
run through those together on the floor.
Freddie, I'm going to give you all your birthdays, Christmases and holidays at once.
There's a story circulating the foreign press.
It's all conjecture, but in May Nasser's dentist was approached with a bribe to poison Nasser.
Two MI6 operatives met with him, posing as British diplomats.
I know.
Freddie, you need to hear this.
Apparently apparently they had a female companion with them.
Pretty girl, blonde, well educated.
- No.
- Freddie, it was Ruth.
She was the bait.
It seems as though there was nothing she wouldn't have done for Peter Darrall.
She was working with them, Freddie.
I'm sorry.
Hector, how did you get on? LOUDSPEAKER: All staff on The Hour to studio D, please! Five minute introduction, factual report on the Suez demonstration, intercut with footage, then we're back to the studio for military analysis of the ground invasion with Admiral Green - see if he's here yet.
- Lix? - Move on to coverage of the United States.
Montgomery does general assessment of the election then canvasses opinion of the wider political landscape.
- Isaac's sketch - Miss Rowley, five minutes.
Clear the set, please, five minutes! Mark? Thank you.
Why's Isaac got a moustache? Er, Guy Fawkes.
That was yesterday.
LAUGHTER Extraordinary technology THEY CHATTER INAUDIBLY Yes.
I want them off my set.
We'll be watching from the Executive bar upstairs.
- That's meant to comfort me? - Good luck.
Clarence? Mr Lyon.
You're very chirpy tonight.
Well, one must remain optimistic.
Wonderful piece this morning in the Daily Express, rallying around our Prime Minister in the midst of such sniping.
I bought 12 copies, handed them out.
Boosted party morale.
Nothing like rearranging the deckchairs as the hull starts to tip.
Will you ever tire of such cynicism? Hope you're cosying up to Macmillan.
Be terribly cold for you when this is all over.
Where will you go when all the dirty secrets come out? One word of dissent in this time of war and They shot deserters for less.
Freddie, see you upstairs afterwards for a drink? Ringside seats.
Mr Lyon, time.
- I feel sick.
- Don't be wet.
Hector.
Douglas invited me down.
To keep an eye on me? SHERWIN CHUCKLES Marnie insisted.
Thought you might need the support tonight.
Mr Madden, they're waiting.
That's fine, thank you.
Cigarette out, please, sir.
She's beside herself.
This is not the time.
Do you have any idea what you are risking here? I couldn't care less what antics you're embroiled in in your private life, just don't bring them into your marriage.
You have only one of those, Hector, and one career.
Now, you make them both work or neither will.
Don't tell me what to do, Wallace.
I married your daughter, not you.
Don't get ahead of yourself, Hector.
See your limits, like the rest of us do.
Success is in your hands.
Think about where your loyalties lie.
Don't be ashamed to let yourself down, now you've got this far.
HE SIGHS So, Admiral, you will notice two lights, two cameras.
- When the light turns red.
- Yes, yes, I look Mr Madden will introduce you before you give your presentation.
- Admiral Green, delighted you could join us tonight.
- Very good.
- Ron will show you where you're sitting.
- Righty-ho.
Hurry up, Daddy, it's almost starting.
There we are.
- Um, Clarence.
- Thank you.
- Is your guest here yet? - No.
And a penitent communist won't cut it.
He will if you don't fill that slot, Freddie.
- I am serious, I have really stuck my neck out for you.
- He'll come.
What's wrong? - Tell me.
- Nothing.
He'll come.
If he's not here by the end of the second slot, then Ron, cue up our communist chap for the last slot if I give you the nod.
Are you coming up? Moneypenny.
Whatever happens tonight, we, um we mustn't regret a minute of it.
Um, good luck, everyone.
Let's make this an extraordinary show for extraordinary times.
And, Ron, keep the bloody boom out of shot.
LAUGHTER Ladies and gentlemen, are we ready? - Oh, Angus, please.
- Thank you.
Best seat in the house.
You got a bit of glue on you.
Do you think the moustache is too much? No, it's very dashing.
- Break a leg.
- Hope not.
- No, no, it's just what you say when - No, no, I know, yes.
Sorry, funny.
- Freddie - All present and correct.
You know they put donkeys in with racehorses to calm them down.
You all right? Fine.
Standby for count down.
- Will you be able to see? - Yes.
Wonderful team effort.
I do hope it doesn't all go to waste.
Five .
.
four .
.
three .
.
two .
.
one.
Go straight to studio.
Good evening.
Welcome to The Hour in this most extraordinary week.
In the last seven days, Britain and France have invaded Egypt.
A vast military operation is underway there, and we are fortunate to have Admiral Green with us here - one of the leading experts in tactical warfare.
- Admiral Green, thank you for joining us tonight.
- Thank you.
- That's the wrong camera.
- Wrong camera! Wrong camera! Wrong camera.
- And we have this very handy map to demonstrate.
- Yes.
Would you like to show us exactly how the French - and British invasion unfolded? - Absolutely.
At 05:15 hours yesterday, British airborne forces were dropped on Gamil airbase, five miles west of Port Said.
After a fierce fight, they successfully took the airfield, while French airborne troops landed south of Port Said.
Certainly efficient.
This success paves the way for advance on military targets further south.
Standby on the Eisenhower election campaign - how we doing? Two minutes 13.
In your view, how well planned was this operation? It's impressive, the speed with which it's been organised - commendable.
Yes.
Hear hear! And it's our duty to continue until the whole of the Canal Zone is once more under British and French control.
Nut? Yes, why not? This is the only way to bring stability.
Let's hope so.
- Thank you very much, Admiral.
- Thank you very much.
So far, so good.
And now it's over to America, with news coming in that Eisenhower has taken Texas.
Here is a report from our man in Washington, Robert Montgomery, who sent this from the Election Trail.
Thank you.
MONTGOMERY: 'Certainly canvassing opinion it is clear 'that Eisenhower seems on course to win.
'But there are those who believe his surge in popularity has been 'in part bolstered by his refusal to be drawn into the crisis in Suez.
' AMERICAN INTERVIEWEE: 'Your Prime Minister may have - 'defended Suez in your economic -interest.
' - Oh, Christ.
'But from an American perspective, well, we'd be asking questions.
' Clarence? 'That's why I voted for Eisenhower, 'because he kept the hell out of there.
' Whose idea was this? Views expressed by foreign nationals do not contravene the rule.
HE SIGHS The protests in London are in response to events in Suez, and our country is divided.
Oh, God, what next? - We've been on the streets of London this week - Stand by, TC.
- And this is what we saw - Cue TC.
We're standing in a side street by Trafalgar Square.
You can see the crowds behind me.
"Law Not War" is the message they are taking to Downing Street today.
You can hear the crowds chanting, "one, two, three, four, "we won't fight in Eden's war," as they snake their way from every corner along Whitehall.
I met a man who'd come down from Carlisle this morning, another from Lincolnshire Come back on the sound levels a bit.
Time? 12 minutes 14 seconds.
REPORTER: Madam, I notice you're wearing medals.
May I ask you which regiment? Royal East Kent Regiment.
- He looks nervous tonight.
- Mmmm.
REPORTER: Your husband's? Son, and I don't want to lose another, not that I don't know what we're fighting for.
I notice that you've brought his daughter here today.
She never knew him, I I want her to remember today.
'If Sir Anthony Eden is sincere 'in what he is saying, and he may be' - Um, anyone for a top-up? - No, thank you.
'.
.
If he is sincere in what he is saying, then he is too stupid to be a Prime Minister!' CROWD CHEERS ON TV Good on the Green interview.
- I would've been harder.
- You weren't interviewing.
Get the communist chap ready.
I can't wait any longer, Freddie.
He's not coming! Where are you going? Let me make one more phone call.
Isaac, get ready.
We're going straight to the sketch.
TV: 'The police have gone bleeding mad.
They're just hitting out at anybody.
'A woman's on the floor.
No-one's helping her.
' 'It's becoming heated.
You can see people running all over the place.
'There are police on horseback desperately trying to control the fray.
' A little harsh.
No laws broken yet, Angus.
Maybe I'd better have that top-up.
Time.
Five.
Four.
Three.
Two.
One.
Back to studio.
PHONE RINGS OU It was Ovid who said a horse never runs so fast as when he has other horses to catch up and outpace.
- What now? - 'Here at The Hour, we thought what better way to view the fast-unfolding events of recent days 'than by our very own day at the races?' And what a beautiful day it is, as punters place their last bets for this key race.
You can see them lining up at the post.
One or two are certanly frisky.
There's Colonel Nasser in the red, white and black Sketch? You never said anything about a sketch.
There's the stars and stripes.
President Eisenhower, he's got the blinkers on, but his nose is set.
Yes, Eisenhower's hoping for electoral victory today.
And from where we're standing, it could be any man's race.
And they're off! It's a good start for Rule Britannia and Mademoiselle Francaise, heading off at a steady pace.
What is he saying? I think it's a play on horse racing, Daddy.
You see, there's rather witty odds on Rule Britannia and Mademoiselle Francaise to win.
It's a bloody farce.
What fun! And there's no stopping the Colonel.
He's a good nose ahead.
And the United Nations are clearly flagging Fall back a bit.
Eisenhower's fallen back, his eye on the long game.
Amy, will you double check that there are no messages for me? He's threatening to invade.
He's invading.
Colonel Nasser is not happy.
The Israeli is in suspect form.
Look out, here come the American Press.
And the American Press are voicing concern.
Two riderless horses are moving in.
Man Of Peace and Illegal War.
Rule Britannia and Mademoiselle Francaise are clearly astounded.
Looks like Man Of Peace will undoubtedly win this race.
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, this is mayhem.
I've never seen the like.
It is mayhem today! Illegal War will now take over Man Of Peace to cross the line.
I specifically said no sketch! The steward is waving his flag.
Just bring the bloody lights down.
.
.
in a fury - there's sure to be an enquiry.
Stop it.
Bring the lights down if you have to.
Now! Ladies and gentleman, the race has been pulled as the riderless horses cross the line in a photo finish.
So, this is the BBC? Where do you want me? Ladies and gentlemen, all bets are off.
There are no winners today.
Bring the lights up on Hector.
Are you completely, completely mad? I said no sketch.
I specifically said no sketch! What the hell you think you're doing? Trying to keep your show on air.
We're still live.
Stand by with the Communist Party interview.
Counting down.
Five, four, three, two, one.
We're joined in the studio by a member of the British Communist Party, who is Different interview.
Get our comrade out.
I'm terribly, sorry, ladies and gentlemen, that, er that interview won't be happening.
- And what do we have next? - This is my programme.
- You left tonight in my hands.
- Bel, dear, you might want to see this.
Thattaboy.
I must apologise for the technical fault.
There are gremlins everywhere.
But that will not stop us tonight.
Our next guest, Lord Elms of Framlingham What was Hector thinking of? This could ruin him.
What's he doing here? '.
.
Is a Conservative peer in The House of Lords' I don't know.
I'll find out.
.
.
in light of the momentous events of the last week.
The House of Lords, of course, is one of our oldest institutions and, er - Is he bottling it? - Yes.
.
.
keeping an eye on the actions and decisions of Government PHONE RINGS Yes.
.
.
Bringing a wealth of experience, making laws, legislation, public policy I'll try to find out.
You're going to have to explain to Douglas why no-one was informed that Lord Elms would be joining us on the programme tonight.
Keep going.
perspective on legislation.
Tonight, Lord Elms will be interviewed by my colleague.
Mr Frederick Lyon, our home affairs reporter, who has been keeping a very close eye on events.
- Lord Elms will have no doubt have something to say - Christ.
.
.
about the situation, and in particular Ron, keep it going.
about this government.
Camera two.
Um good evening, Lord Elms.
- Thank you for joining us tonight.
- Thank you for asking me.
You have been a member of the House of Lords for many years.
Yes.
I also served in both world wars.
And for several years, I practised at the bar.
And you've known Sir Anthony Eden for many years.
Is that correct? - Yes.
- And what is your opinion of the Prime Minister? II have believed him an honourable man.
I've supported the Prime Minister in the past.
And what of now, Lord Elms? I ask you as someone who has believed and for many years, served this government.
What is your view of the government today? I find that all that I believed, all that I held true has been turned upside down in these last few fragile months.
I see.
And why is that, sir? I don't care what you do, but you shut this programme down now.
Did you hear that, Clarence? - 'I find myself - I'll call presentation now.
.
.
At an impasse, with a sense of loss so great, one could call it a crisis of my own.
Put me through to Presentation.
It's a personal crisis, sir? A story that is close to you? But it is not simply personal.
It's a loss of trust, a loss of belief and more, a loss of my own ability to judge what is true any more.
Is it not the case, Lord Elms, that it is a personal experience that has led to this doubt? All that I know is that when the authority of a government is challenged, that government will do everything in its power to ensure they are not exposed as the liars and murderers that they are.
Liars and murderers? These are strong words, Lord Elms.
Yes.
I do not use them lightly.
And what was it that made you so radically change your view? I have come to understand that it is possible, Frederick, to be a patriot and at the same time question and judge the wisdom and rightness of the government in power.
Ladies and gentlemen, if we cannot debate that which troubles our society, and more importantly troubles our government, then we cannot in all honesty call ourselves a democracy.
If we cannot question our leaders as they embark on what has been called an illegal military action, an action publicly opposed by the United States government Shut it down now.
And the countries of the United Nations Security Council I want it off now.
If we cannot reasonably and intelligently query Shut down The Hour.
.
.
about the rightness of an action that appears at heart to be deceitful Do it now.
Then we are not a free - You're fired.
Right.
I expected nothing less.
For God's sake, turn that camera off.
36 minutes and 39 seconds.
It's not bad.
Lord Elms, your car is waiting for you.
Thank you.
Lord Elms did you realise how far Peter Darrall had led Ruth? You know, Frederick, when you were first evacuated to us, you were nearly 12.
We sent our driver to the station to pick you up.
It was only many years later that he told me you chatted all the way to the house, insisted on sitting next to him.
You thought he was me.
You didn't see his rough hands.
You only saw a man you could talk about cars with.
I've thought often of this and what a disappointment we must have been to you.
I must have been.
So stiff.
Always sitting in the back, away from the real conversation, when all you wanted was to sit in the front and talk.
I realise it's what Ruthie longed for from me.
Such discoveries.
All too late.
We should have talked to her.
Not let her stray so far.
It all comes back to Ruth.
That's why MI6 killed her.
It all comes back to Ruthie.
I'll drive you home.
I have my car.
I can drive my wife home.
Daddy, I'll be fine.
Shall we speak tomorrow, Hector? There's a lot to talk about.
You made the right decision tonight.
I made a decision tonight, Wallace.
Well, you know where I am.
- Five minutes.
- Hector Wait downstairs.
You're coming home? Please convey my commiserations to Miss Rowley.
For her programme tonight.
I can't go back to the mailroom.
I can't.
I can't bear it.
The trick is to get very, very drunk and then dance until you're sick.
Fancy a drink? I'll just get my coat.
Mr Lyon? Well, at least you can't say your copy's boring any more.
Whisky's finished.
- Lix, coming? - No, not tonight.
Tonight, I just want to go home.
Bravo, sweetheart.
Today you reminded me why I do this job.
You bottled that last interview.
Ambition over integrity, Hector, well done.
Freddie needed a chance.
Liar.
Do you think it's over? Yes.
- I'm sorry.
- Don't be.
I take nothing back.
You're going back to Marnie.
What if we left now? What if we just went? You and me.
To France, or No, I thought not too.
Apparently, there are there are openings in the Natural History department.
- Maybe I'll see you there.
- Mmm.
Did we go too far? Quite possibly.
Most definitely.
Good work, James.
You too, Moneypenny.
Where where's Clarence? It's over, Freddie! Clarence? Mr Lyon.
We were just talking about you.
You really have outdone yourself tonight.
Could you do any more to undermine the future of this programme? Really? I thought we showed restraint.
We could have been far more controversial.
What do you mean? To reveal the government's unofficial attempts to destroy Colonel Nasser might destabilise the country at a time of war, and we wouldn't do that to an already weak Prime Minister.
Unsubstantiated and outrageous accusations.
Who the hell do you think you are? Unofficial conversations have taken place between the government and secret service, alluding to an attempt to assassinate Nasser.
Ruth Elms knew this.
That is why they killed her.
What does he mean? - Clarence.
- I have absolutely no idea.
Clarence, he needs to know.
Know what? My apologies.
It's been a a long night.
Hmm.
Well, I'm sure it will all look very different in the morning.
Clarence.
Clarence! Stupid, stupid, stupid, stupid, stupid boy! What you did tonight was sabotage.
Everything that I have worked for the last 30 years, gone.
- It was the truth.
- The truth? Righteous enthusiasm disguised as integrity? Together, you and the entire team of The Hour have dismantled the core of everything we have built.
Your positions are untenable.
You could not have disappointed me more, Freddie.
I told you about that transcript because What? - What was I meant to do with it? - Run it.
Just bloody run it, Freddie.
That's all you had to do.
You told me not to say anything! When have you listened to anybody who asked you to be quiet? You normally broadcast it to the world! - And slander the whole government? - Yes.
Why do you think I brought you in as part of this team, Freddie? Because I saw something in you I once saw in myself.
The courage of my convictions.
If you were planning to expose us, me, yourself in that way, at least make it worth it.
Save your speeches, because they don't work.
You blew the story, Freddie.
You, no, you, worse than that, you teased us with a story that you did not deliver.
I gave you the story of your career, and you ran with a personal one.
You, you're useless to me now.
I cannot look at you.
I can't.
You're no longer an asset.
It's you.
I'm your Brightstone.
What? You put me on that list.
Clarence.
You put me on that list, like Darrall put Ruth.
"There's a Soviet agent working within the BBC, Freddie.
" That's why you burnt the cigarette paper, in case they traced it back to you.
It's not me they're watching, is it? It's you.
The click on the telephone.
It's not us they're listening to, it's you.
Tell me the truth.
Freddie, I Are you the Soviet agent working within the BBC? No comment.
Perhaps I might rephrase that.
My apologies.
In June, a respected academic and Soviet spy, Peter Darrall, was murdered in London.
Unfortunately, he was unable to do his drop that day to inform his what? Colleague? Associate? You.
.
.
that he'd been rumbled and perhaps it'd be better if he "revert to Brightstone".
Find himself a new agent.
Did you have anyone particular in mind? Perhaps me? Mr Fendley, I must ask you to reply.
The nation is waiting.
There was a time, Freddie, when .
.
when a man had to find other ways to defy his government.
This was mine.
My God, Clarence.
Join the bloody British Communist Party if you will, raise a bloody flag if you must, but a spy?! Why? Did you not see what erm, Russia has just done in Hungary? That pass you by? Clarence! I don't know why they don't suspect us more.
Journalists.
We're thrust into world events, life-changing events and they expect us not to be changed.
Well, it changed me.
It changed my view of the world.
Suddenly it all suddenly it all made sense.
But to betray your country? - Was there really no better way? - To defend what I believed in? I didn't think so.
Not until these last few months.
Not until now.
Not until this programme.
Hope at the last hour.
You're a spy.
What do I do now? What any good journalist would do.
You you run it.
Tell the world what I am.
For Ruth.
BEL: Freddie.
Is, is everything? I must go home to, to Edith.
Good night.
Freddie? Are you all right? Do you trust me? - What? - Would I betray you? No.
Yes.
Big betrayal or small betrayal? - I'd never betray you.
- No.
- I'm a good person.
- Yes.
Do you trust me? More than anyone else.
Not good enough.
Missed the mark again.
I hate you.
I hate you.
HE LAUGHS I hate you too.
C'mon.
We've got a story to write.
Text by Red Bee Media Ltd