When a new prime minister takes office, one of their first responsibilities is to write a “letter of last resort.” Sir Keir Starmer will soon be tasked with drafting this letter, addressed to an unnamed Trident missile submarine commander patrolling the Atlantic.
The letter instructs the commander, in the event of a devastating attack on Britain, to retaliate by launching a nuclear weapon. Starmer will receive briefing on the destructive power of a Trident missile before composing this letter.
Trident submarines have the capability to cause massive civilian casualties and disrupt global food supplies. The letter, penned by the prime minister, provides detailed instructions on how to respond to a nuclear attack on the country.
This scene is vividly portrayed in David Grieg’s play, “The Letter of Last Resort,” and underscores the grave decision-making process faced by leaders in times of crisis.
Despite concerns over the financial burden and ethical implications of nuclear weapons, Starmer remains steadfast in his commitment to maintaining Britain’s nuclear deterrent.
The complex and secretive nature of Trident, along with the geopolitical realities that underpin its existence, raises questions about the true cost and efficacy of such a program. As debates around Trident continue to unfold, the implications for national security and international relations remain at the forefront of the discussion.