LETTER:Nuclear testsin the Pacific

rom Mr Geoffrey Hubbard

Sir: The French Ambassador, Jean Gueguinou, (Another View; "Nuclear tests are safe", 16 June) makes a poor case on behalf of a country with a reputation for logical thought. How does the independence and defence of France depend on the safety and reliability of its nuclear weapons? Is not the independence of France rooted in its membership of the European Union and its defence in its relationship with Nato?

If the independence and defence of France depend on its nuclear deterrent, how can France expect non-nuclear countries to sign the Non-Proliferation Treaty, so denying themselves the right to secure their independence and defence by the possession of nuclear weapons?

And if the tests will have no harmful effects on health or the environment, why are they not being conducted in France?

Yours faithfully,

GEOFFREY HUBBARD

London, N5

16 June