Humphrey Appleby is a fictional character from the British television series Yes Minister and its sequel Yes, Prime Minister. He serves as the permanent secretary to the Minister of Administrative Affairs, showcasing the inner workings of the British civil service. Known for his intelligence and cunning, Humphrey often manipulates situations to maintain the status quo and protect the interests of the bureaucracy. The character is portrayed by actor Nigel Hawthorne, who brings a blend of wit and charm to the role. Humphrey's interactions with the ministers, particularly Jim Hacker, highlight the complexities of political decision-making and the often humorous conflicts between elected officials and civil servants.