Hacker and Sir Humphrey in “A Real Partnership”

Hacker

Why the sudden crisis? The Treasury must've seen it coming.

Sir Humphrey

Prime Minister, I'm not the Permanent Secretary to the Treasury. You must ask Sir Frank.

Hacker

What would Sir Frank say?

Sir Humphrey

It is not for a humble mortal such as I to speculate on the complex and elevated deliberations of the mighty. But in general, I think Sir Frank believes that if the Treasury knows something has to be done, the Cabinet shouldn't have too much time to think about it.

Hacker

But that's an outrageous view!

Sir Humphrey

Yes, indeed. It's known as Treasury policy.

Hacker

Suppose the Cabinet has questions?

Sir Humphrey

Well I think Sir Frank's view is that on the rare occasions when the Treasury understands the questions, the Cabinet doesn't understand the answers.