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The programme takes the form of an imaginary future in which a group of scientists are discussing an imminent nuclear war between the USA and the Soviet Union following a dispute in the Middle East over access to oil. The scientists look back at film reports from 1985 to try to discover how the lessons of the past could have been used to prevent the catastrophe.
The first report they consider is about the American plan for a 'Star Wars' weapon defence system. Interviewed are: Doctor David Baker of Space Consultants International; Professor Neville Brown of Birmingham University; and Doctor John Barker of the University of Warwick. We see various animations of the proposed system.
Next, environmental issues are considered. It is predicted that by the end of the twentieth century man's reliance on fossil fuels will be causing serious damage to the planet. Global warming caused by the burning of coal and oil, intensive farming, logging in the rain forests and third world famine are all considered and illustrated with extensive use of library pictures. Interviewed are: Doctor Michael Kelly of the University of East Anglia; Doctor Norman Myers of Oxford; and Professor Tom Atkinson of Nottingham University.
Finally the chances of a future conflict in the Middle East is considered. Doctor Jonathan Stearn of the Institute of International Affairs and Professor Neville Brown of Birmingham University both predict an American invasion of the region particularly if the Saudi monarchy becomes unstable.
Written and Researched by Keith Wootton
Produced and Directed by Peter Salkeld
Voronov: Steve Plytas
Rosenberg: Manning Redwood
Collins: Cyril Conway
Chinn: Anthony Chinn
Camera: John Varnish, Geoff Lloyd
Sound: Frank Minton, John Marshall
Dubbing Mixer: Brian Saunders
Lighting: Brian Best, Dave Hamilton
Production Secretary: Margaret Hale
Production Assistant: Sylvia Ellis
Film Researcher: Janet Pitts
Film Editor: Judy Hooker
Assistant Film Editor: John Crumpton
VT Editor: Al Pigden
Rostrum Camera: Ian Cole
Graphic Designer: Peter Smith
Designer: Ken Ryan
The Quest series Presented by Sue Jay and Produced by Graham Mole
Production number 6339/85.