Miami, 1974. John Stonehouse’s (Matthew Macfadyen) head bobs above the water. Looking back at the beach, he sees his clothes folded up. This
is the point of no return. In the late sixties, John Stonehouse’s political career is booming. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Harold Wilson (Kevin R.McNally), he bags ministerial roles in Aviation and then as Postmaster General. He’s happily married to Barbara Stonehouse (Keeley Hawes), with three children. During these successes though, Stonehouse is also forging secret relationships – first with Czech spymaster Alexander Marek (Igor Grabuzov) and then with his new secretary Sheila Buckley (Emer Heatley). Marek makes him an offer and Stonehouse is more than happy to trade information for money. His romance with Sheila is more organic, but also requires some more plate-spinning.
On top of this, the drama sees him spending his new found wealth lavishly. Against Barbara’s wishes, they move into a grand new house and Stonehouse buys an impractical sports car. The 1970 election proves to be a turning point as Stonehouse, when Labour loses power, goes from flag-waver to scapegoat. He’s left out in the cold by Wilson, Marek and the media. Rumours of fraud are circulating too, as his suspect investments are scrutinised. He’s becoming desperate. Inspired by The Day of the Jackal, he hatches a secret plan to escape his dire circumstances that involves a dead constituent and forged passports.A ministerial trip to Miami is the perfect opportunity – but can he bear to leave his family, and the real John Stonehouse, behind?