Yes, Minister, Series Three (1982)

Hacker:
Isn't this terrible? Print baseless accusations like this!

Sir Humphrey:
Oh, yes, yes, terrible.

Hacker:
Baksheesh, palm-greasing! Good God, we're British!

Sir Humphrey:
Absolutely, Minister!

Hacker:
Still, it's not like the FT to print a story like this unless there's something behind it. Is there something behind it, Humphrey?

Bernard:
I think the sports news is behind it.

Hacker:
I want to know the truth, Humphrey.

Sir Humphrey:
I don't think you do, Minister.

Hacker:
Will you answer a direct question?

Sir Humphrey:
I strongly advise you not to ask a direct question.

Hacker:
Why?

Sir Humphrey:
It might provoke a direct answer.

Hacker:
It never has yet.