The BBC And The Bomb: Cold War Broadcasting From The Bunkers
Iain Betson
- Region:
- West Midlands
- Notice Period:
- Emergency (maybe less than one week's notice)
- Type:
- Professional
- Fee:
- Paid: Online delivery: £30.00. In-person: £45.00 plus 50p/mile expenses
- Category:
- History
- Updated:
- 3rd July 2024
- Tagged:
- Coldwar | Broadcasting | British History | Bbc
From the 1950s to the 1990s, if the Cold War had turned hot, the Government had well-laid plans for what to do in the event of a nuclear strike on Britain. Part of those plans was the implementation of the BBC-produced, but Government-directed, Wartime Broadcasting Service: A single national radio station that would have replaced ALL radio and TV services in the UK.
Originally conceived to provide both information and boost the morale of survivors whilst they waited for rescue, it morphed into a mouthpiece to tell the nation how they might survive after the H-Bomb was dropped and the recovery of the country afterwards.
But for many it would have been the last voice they ever heard...
Using a multi-media presentation of images, audio, video, first-hand memories of the people who ran it and declassified documents, Iain Betson tells the story of this little-known piece of Cold War history: Where it would been broadcast from? What would have been heard? (you would be surprised!) and who, in the event of an attack, would have descended into the bunkers to broadcast it?
And, he asks, does such a service exist today?
Views: 2030 | Enquiries: 7About Iain Betson
Apart from two years, when he built nuclear missiles at a secret research centre, (true story!) and being a signatory of the Official Secrets Act as a result, Iain Betson has worked all his professional life in the television and radio broadcasting industry, both in the UK and internationally. A BBC trained radio engineer and training instructor, he trained many of the journalists you see and hear on UK radio and television news.
His talks both reflect his professional experience and interests. He is able to bring real-world knowledge to enhance the delivery.
Feel confident to book me
As a professional trainer, of many years standing, I have no worries in delivering my talks in front of an audience, be they online or in-person. I "de-jargon" the subject to make the talk accessible to all and can adjust my delivery to suit a varied audience. I am always willing to take questions at the end.
I have my own presentation equipment: laptop, (microphone if required) , projector and screen or can connect to a large TV monitor via the appropriate cables
I charge £30.00 for an online and £45.00 for in-person delivery for any talk. Mileage expense is charged at 50p/mile.
Testimonials
"Iain many thanks for your professionally delivered talk. It was very relevant in view of the Ukraine invasion. I will certainly keep you in mind for if I am asked for recommendations."
"Thank you for a most interesting and informative talk, which was enjoyed by all our members. I have to say that I don’t remember being as frightened in the 70s and 80s as when I heard your recordings from the time!"
Groups I have delivered to
- Civic societies
- Probus
- Engineering societies
- Rotary clubs
Other Talks on SpeakerNet by Iain Betson
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