| ID | 100669 |
| Title Proper | Strength in numbers |
| Other Title Information | the labour government and the size of the polaris force |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Gill, David James |
| Publication | 2010. |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | Previous historical accounts have simplified the Labour government's decision to commission a four-boat strategic nuclear deterrent, or 'Polaris force', in early 1965. Utilising previously classified sources, this article shows that a number of key strategic concerns led the decision-making process. Nevertheless, broader economic and diplomatic considerations were also important in determining the size of the Polaris force. A tremendous balance of payments deficit and ongoing debates regarding levels of conventional and nuclear involvement in NATO certainly influenced the government's final decision. Moreover, competing strategic and economic interests resulted in continued debate throughout the decision-making process. |
| `In' analytical Note | Journal of Strategic Studies Vol. 33, No. 6; Dec 2010: p. 819 - 845 |
| Journal Source | Journal of Strategic Studies Vol. 33, No. 6; Dec 2010: p. 819 - 845 |
| Key Words | Labour Party ; Harold Wilson ; Nuclear Weapons |