Late 80's / Early 90's tv series

[Sorcerer]

Trying to find the name of a tv drama series, aired in the very late 80's or early 90's. Problem is, I'm very light on details - series revolved around a number of friends, I believe linked by attending the same college. One enters politics, one invents a laser-thingy which can see through hands, but it's taken up by the military to allow vision through smoke/fog etc. Company they form or the product itself is called 'Star - something'. There's a woman called Jonquil. I recall the laser chap looking at a house and saying the words, 'Period Gentleman's Residence... Do I look like a period gentleman?'. That's about it for my memory. I thought Malcom Bradbury had something to do with it, but it would appear not, or at least, I can't find anything resembling the program I'm thinking of, credited to him. Grateful for any pointers, as this trivia is keeping me awake at night!

[LeMarchand]

"Cuts" was based on a book by Bradbury, and featured a character called Jonquil: http://us.imdb.com/title/tt0124326/ , but it doesn't sound like the same plot. The group of friends sounds like "Our Friends in the North": http://us.imdb.com/title/tt0115305/ . I don't think laser featured in either show, though - but I've not actually seen either of them!.