THE apparent ‘mystery’ surrounding the huge military convoy on the M6 (Warrington Guardian online, August 5) raises several important and worrying questions.

It is clear to anyone viewing the photographs and video available that these were the same vehicles which left the atomic weapons establishment in Berkshire on July 25, which arrived at the Trident submarine base at Coulport in Scotland on July 26.

Meanwhile, we know the purpose of such convoys is usually to transport a very dangerous cargo of nuclear warheads between the two sites.

So, we all need to ask, why are such convoys being driven through our communities with ever increasing frequency and without any warning?

Who would deal with the consequences were such vehicles to be caught up in a fire such as that which closed the M6 southbound on July 29?

Who is responsible for protecting the public from a potential accident involving such a convoy, which the Ministry of Defence has already indicated could spread radioactive contamination over at least 10km?

How do the police justify shouting ‘put your phone away’ when a concerned member of the public was recording the convoy driving past them in a residential area? What do they not want us to see?

PHILIP GILLIGAN

Milnthorpe