The submarine captain's role is discussed through two different circumstances. Direct launch orders from Britain are distinguished from the letter held aboard for a loss of contact with London. The letter is described as conveying the prime minister's wishes for that contingency. The panel notes that the letters are replaced when the prime minister changes and that the old versions are destroyed. A guest tentatively recalls that no submarine began a patrol with Liz Truss's letter during her premiership, leaving that specific recollection qualified.
Notable Point · 8:13:05-8:14:50
Letters of last resort and loss of contact with Britain
The letters are presented as instructions for loss of contact, distinct from a launch order received through the normal chain of command.