in the wider debate the broadcast generated rather little controversy or reaction. perhaps, as hugo young wrote, this was because "even the most sensational television programme is dependent on the print media for an afterlife, and the sensible politician understands that by far the most effective neutering tactic is simply not to complain". patrick stoddart suggested, calling it a gloomy view, that perhaps simply much of the public was relatively unconcerned about the killing of perceived ira gunmen, whether or not appropriate warnings had been shouted first.