Jim Hacker: Oh, yes.
CSA: Why?
Hacker: Pardon?
CSA: Why?
Hacker: Because it deters.
CSA: Whom?
Hacker: Pardon?
CSA: Whom? Whom does it deter?
Hacker: The Russians from attacking us.
CSA: Why?
Hacker: Pardon?
CSA: Why?
Hacker: They know if they launched an attack, I'd press the button.
CSA: You would?
Hacker: Well, wouldn't I?
CSA: Well, would you?
Hacker: At the last resort, yes, I certainly would... Well, I think I certainly would. Yes.
CSA: And what is the last resort?
Hacker: If the Russians invaded western Europe.
CSA: You only have 12 hours to decide, so you're saying the last resort is the first response?
Hacker: Am I?
CSA: You don't need to worry. Why should the Russians annex the whole of Europe? They can't even control Afghanistan. No, if they try anything, it will be salami tactics.
Hacker: Salami tactics?
CSA: Slice by slice. One small piece at a time... So will you press the button if they invade West Berlin?
Hacker: It all depends.
CSA On what? No... Scenario one. Riots in West Berlin, buildings in flames. East German fire brigade crosses the border to help. Would you press the button...?
Hacker: *Shakes head*
CSA: The East German police come with them. The button...?
Hacker: *Shakes head*
CSA: Then some troops, more troops just for riot control, they say. And then the East German troops are replaced by Russian troops. Button...?
Hacker: *Shakes head*
CSA: Then the Russian troops don't go. They are invited to stay to support civilian administration. The civilian administration closes roads and Tempelhof Airport. Now you press the button?
Hacker: I need time to think about it.
CSA: You have 12 hours.
Hacker: Have I? You're inventing this.
CSA: You are Prime Minister today. The phone might ring now from NATO HQ.
*PHONE RINGS*
Bernard: Hello...? Yes. NATO HQ, Prime Minister.
Hacker: *Looks ashen*
Bernard: Can you address their annual conference in April?
Hacker: I thought I could... I'm not so sure now.
Yes Prime Minister, "The Grand Design", aired 9th Jan 1986.
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