House of Cards - Season 1 - Eps 1: Part 1
Francis Urquhart is the perfect politician. Impeccably diplomatic, charming, admired, trusted and respected by all. He has faithfully served his party without question, but events are about to spark his ambition. When the long-standing Prime Minister dies, the hunt is on to find a replacement. Urquhart is a hard-line Conservative and believes in strong leadership. In his eyes, none of the choices measures up. Naturally, he keeps his opinions to himself, but as Party Whip, his support is valuable, and he is courted by all the candidates. He must tread warily, as supporting the loser could cost him his position. Supporting the winner, however, could land him a Cabinet position.
About House of Cards

Title: House of Cards
First Air Date: 1990-11-18
Last Air Date: 1990-12-09
Status: Ended
Rating: 8.1/10 (from 144 votes)
Language: EN
Seasons: 2
Total Episodes: 4
Network: BBC One
Genres: War & Politics, Comedy, Drama
Production Companies: Unknown
Synopsis
Frustrated at a new moderate Conservative government and deprived of a promotion to a senior position, chief whip Francis Urquhart prepares a meticulous plot to bring down the Prime Minister then to take his place.
Cast

Ian Richardson
Francis Urquhart

Susannah Harker
Mattie Storin

Malcolm Tierney
Patrick Woolton

Alphonsia Emmanuel
Penny Guy

Diane Fletcher
Elizabeth Urquhart

William Chubb
John Krajewski

Isabelle Amyes
Anne Collingridge

Nicholas Selby
Lord Billsborough

David Lyon
Henry Collingridge

Colin Jeavons
Tim Stamper