Sir dennis deane, recognized in the honours list for services to export by selling re-tread tyres and second hand automobile parts to third world countries; then takes on the position of treasurer for the tory party in the region of mercia. he mixes with people in high places and ends up involved in several political deals from which he profits. he uses his influence to support paul rugglestone as parliamentary candidate for the constituency but then hears rumours that the mp is gay and has been accused of sexual assault against a young boy. meanwhile the london hospitals face financial difficulties and dennis uses his position as chairman of the regional health authority to make an overnight loan to bail them out even though this would amount to money laundering. at the same time his daughter annabel causes trouble as an animal rights activist and a newspaper reporter, henry pye, faces threats to his life as he attempts to uncover dennis' many and various corrupt schemes.