Rethinking the Unthinkable
The threat of nuclear winter, the fear that any European war will totally destroy our civilisation, has made many people despair of defence policies which rely on the threat of nuclear holocaust.
But is there a realistic alternative? Can we use new technology and new ideas to evolve a safer strategy? Many military experts now think a greater emphasis on non-nuclear defence is the answer. They believe we can pull nuclear weapons out of the front line, yet still be secure.
Margaret Jay reports on the debate which is taking place at the highest levels of strategic planning.
Producer PETER CERESOLE Editor PETER IBBOTSON