On 25th of February 1980 the political comedy “Yes Minister” written by Antony Jay and Jonathan Lynn, starring Paul Eddington, Nigel Hawthorne and Derek Fowlds premiered on BBC Two.

 It was made up of three seven-episode series and ran from 1980 to 1984. The sequel, Yes, Prime Minister, ran for 16 episodes from 1986 to 1988.

It’s hard to believe this was so long ago as the show still rings true – perhaps even more so – as we watch the political machinations within Government.

The show follows the political career of Jim Hacker, a less than able politician, and his aides in the Civil Service: Permanent Secretary, Sir Humphrey Appleby; and Principal Private Secretary, Bernard Woolley. The satire is as sharp as it ever was.

In 2004 it only achieved 6th place in a poll of Best British Sitcoms despite the excellence of the writing and performances. It did win several BAFTAs.