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Last updated: 11/02/2025 | System ID: DQARS-2024

Series 3 Episodes

A pivotal change occurred when Nicola Murray, an unexpected last-minute appointment, assumed leadership of the Department of Social Affairs and Citizenship following Hugh Abbot's departure. Given her inexperience and lack of personal staff, Murray retained advisers Oliver Reeder and Glenn Cullen. Her primary initiative, the 'Fourth Sector Pathfinder Initiative', became a focal point of departmental policy amid growing election speculation and mounting tension at Number 10. The period saw increased interaction with opposition figure Peter Mannion and witnessed the gradual erosion of Malcolm Tucker's influence, particularly through challenges from Steve Fleming. This power struggle culminated in Tucker's forced resignation, though Fleming's victory proved short-lived as he was himself removed days later. Upon regaining his position, Tucker made the strategic decision to call an immediate election to outmanoeuvre both opposition and internal party threats.

3 Episodes

Series 3 – Episode 1

The appointment of Nicola Murray as Secretary of State marked a significant transition at DoSAC. The retention of existing advisory staff Oliver Reeder and Glenn Cullen provided continuity during this period. Meanwhile, Communications Director Malcolm Tucker coordinated media strategy for an upcoming by-election.

24 October 2009
30 minutes

Episode 1

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Series 3 – Episode 2

Opposition Leader Nicola Murray confronted escalating pressures following electoral defeat, including public harassment incidents and leaked strategic documentation. Internal tensions emerged regarding Shadow Cabinet member Dan Miller's increasing collaboration with Communications Director Malcolm Tucker.

31 October 2009
30 minutes

Episode 2

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Series 3 – Episode 3

Dr Stewart Pearson takes Peter Mannion to a 'Thought Camp' at a remote country mansion. While they're away and out of mobile phone range, Fergus Williams invites an attractive female economist into the department to discuss her idea about creating a taxpayer-funded community bank. However, when NHS housing campaigner 'Mr Tickle' commits suicide, Fergus is forced to make a rash decision and Peter finds himself on a slippery slope.

7 November 2009
30 minutes

Episode 3

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Series 3 – Episode 4

A scheduled departmental review by Shadow Minister Peter Mannion coincided with Secretary Nicola Murray addressing urgent matters regarding her daughter's education.

14 November 2009
30 minutes

Episode 4

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Series 3 – Episode 5

The controversial key-worker housing policy faced increasing scrutiny as both Secretary Peter Mannion and former Opposition Leader Nicola Murray attempted to distance themselves from mounting public criticism.

21 November 2009
30 minutes

Episode 5

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Series 3 – Episode 6

Media speculation about Secretary Nicola Murray's leadership potential during the Prime Minister's international diplomatic tour necessitated strategic intervention from Communications Director Malcolm Tucker.

28 November 2009
30 minutes

Episode 6

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Series 3 – Episode 7

The department's Healthy Living initiative launch proceeded during Communications Director Malcolm Tucker's unprecedented absence from Westminster.

5 December 2009
30 minutes

Episode 7

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Series 3 – Episode 8

As election preparations intensified, Communications Director Malcolm Tucker faced diminishing political support until receiving assistance from an unexpected political quarter.

12 December 2009
30 minutes

Episode 8

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