For the Greater Good

Synopsis

For the Greater Good is a three-part 1991 BBC Two television drama serial written by G.F. Newman and directed by Danny Boyle. It centres on three politicians attempting to reform the British prison system. However, their efforts are undermined when the tabloid press exposes their private lives.

First Air Date: 1991-03-20

Last Air Date: 1991-04-03

Number of Seasons: 1

Number of Episodes: 3

Created By: G.F. Newman

Networks: BBC Two

View Technical Specifications on IMDb

Top Cast

Martin Shaw as Peter Balliol MP
Roy Dotrice as Charles Truman MP
Nicholas Jones as Julian Brind
Nicholas Woodeson as Michael Parke-Walsh MP
Michael Winner as Sir Randolph Spence
Rachel Kempson as Dame Margaret Delysia
Joanne Pearce as Brigid Walkland
Ronnie Stevens as Committee Chairman
Chas Bryer as PO Suckley
David Henry as Chief Whip

Seasons

Miniseries (1991)

Three politicians attempt to reform the British prison system. However, their efforts are undermined when the tabloid press exposes their private lives.

Episodes:

Ep. 1: Member (1991-03-20)

Campaigning Tory backbencher Dr Peter Balliol MP finds himself in a crisis of choice between ambition, conscience and a questionable private life.
Ep. 2: Mandarin (1991-03-27)

When a high-flying civil servant discovers a dangerous conspiracy at the Home Office, she must choose between loyalty to her leader and leaking to the press.
Ep. 3: Minister (1991-04-03)

Home Secretary Charles Truman has to weigh up the dictates of conscience against the survival of his career.