Zoe Williams encapsulates the periodic sense of dread successive generations have felt when world events increase the threat of nuclear war and describes some of the seminal moments in our increasing awareness of the dangers (‘By 10, I knew all about the impact of a nuclear blast’, 16 March).
One such was Peter Watkins’ documentary-style film, The War Game, which was pulled by a nervous BBC from its intended screening in 1965 for 20 years, but gained attention via the National Film Theatre and film clubs and a best documentary Academy Award in 1967. It, along with the 1984 TV drama Threads, mentioned by Williams, should be compulsory viewing for politicians who continue to claim that our possession of weapons of mass destruction somehow makes us safer. The current appalling situation should galvanise efforts to secure a total and verifiable worldwide ban.
Dr Anthony Isaacs
London
