The action of the series takes place in the corridors of power of the British government. Hugh Abbot, the new Minister for Social Affairs, along with his aides, as well as all other members of the government and civil servants, and also press staff, are subjected to attacks by Malcolm Tucker, the Director of Communications. Tucker is a maestro of backroom intrigue, a master of foul language, and an unabashed double for Alastair Campbell, the Director of Communications and Strategic Planning in Tony Blair's government.