P.P.E. = Political Philosophy and Economy.

P.P.S. = Parliamentary Private Secretary. A back-bench MP who understudies a Minister. The first rung on the greasy pole to higher office.

To "verbal" a villain is for the Police to allege that he or she has made an admission of guilt, or betrayed his/her partner(s) in crime.

Fried slice = fried slice of bread.

Not too sure about castle pudding, but mousetrap = cheese. It is implied that it is the cheapest brand, usually kept in the fridge too long.

ABC = Allied Broadcasting Corporation.