Yes, Prime Minister Phil Goff

[Excerpt from chapter one of "Yes Prime Minister, the diaries of Rt Hon James Hacker, Vol 1."]

Jim Hacker, his wife Annie, and his Private Secretary are discussing who is likely to suceed the existing Prime Minister who has announced his/her retirement:

"The first law of politics is Never Believe Anything Until It's Been Officially Denied."


Jim Hacker is asked if he was putting his name forward for election as Prime Minister after convincing one of his opponents to withdraw:

"Me? I have absolutely no ambitions in that direction."


Then, when confronted again after convincing the other opponent to withdraw:

"Me? Our children are approaching an age when Annie and I are thinking of spending more time with each other."


Five days later, Jim Hacker becomes Prime Minister.

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