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Solly Zuckerman by John Peyton, John Murray, £22.50, ISBN
071956283X

HE WAS the most influential scientific insider Britain has ever known, an
intelligence to be reckoned with in government and science policy circles for
over 30 years. Solly Zuckerman was originally a biologist, then trained as a
doctor, and finally rose to prominence as an expert on bomb effects and bombing
strategy in the Second World War. Later, at the height of the Cold War, he was
bold enough to champion nuclear disarmament. His autobiographies, particularly
Monkeys, Missiles and Men (Collins, 1988) have told parts of this
story.

Peyton ought to be well placed as a biographer, as he was a government
minister at the height of Zuckerman’s power and influence. He writes well and
stylishly, telling an intriguing story, albeit with a some irritating
repetitions. But like so many who came within Zuckerman’s circle, Peyton has
fallen under the great man’s spell.

We’ll have to wait for a more considered analysis of this key figure in
British science policy.