AS THIS newspaper can testify, the siting of such modest structures as mobile phone masts and rising bollards can cause local controversy.

So just imagine how people would react if missiles were to start popping up all over the place.

This prospect is not quite so barmy as it seems. At least not according to an alarmed, or possibly alarming, Peer.

Speaking in a House of Lords debate, Lord Redesdale said that missiles will have to be placed throughout North Yorkshire if plans for "Son Of Star Wars" go ahead.

The missiles would be needed to defend Fylingdales against a pre-emptive strike by a rogue nation, warned Lord Redesdale. We sincerely hope the Peer is merely indulging in the more florid sort of speculation.

Updated: 10:20 Friday, March 14, 2003