IN entering the debate on the use of the atomb bombs at Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, I would like to make two simple points.

Firstly, in 1945 the use of such weapons contravened the principles of the Just War Theory in several ways.

They were indiscriminate and targeted at civilians. Their effects via radiation are still with sufferers today, and furthermore, children unborn in 1945 were -- and now as adults -- genetically affected. Many believe that these effects were forseen.

Secondly, whatever the rights and wrongs of the argument over use of such weapons in 1945, it is fact that since then, there has been a development that has a bearing on the morality of such use now.

The mere possession and the threat to use such weapons of mass destruction has been defined as a crime against humanity in International Law and as such would be referred to the World Court of Justice.

It seems to me that the latter point should be the one for us, as a civilised and humane society, to concentrate upon.

We must learn from the past so as not to repeat it.

Keith Dewhurst

Wigan Road

Bolton