25 JANUARY 1963, Page 11

SIR, — Mr. Kershaw's letter in your issue of January 18 raises

one or two questions. Who does he think will be deterred by our independent deterrent? Surely not Russia, and what other possible enemy will believe that we would dare world opinion by using the deterrent against themselves? The only reasonable target seems to be General de Gaulle, and he will have a deterrent of his own, so that would be no good. Or is Mr. Kershaw afraid of being deterred by de Gaulle if we don't have a deterrent of our own? And does Mr. Kershaw really think that it is necessary to spend all that money to keep our scientists busy?

HAMP EON

The Old Rectory, Holt, Nr. Worcester