To the editor:

Discussions about national energy policy in the wake of the Persian Gulf crisis seem to be taking place 20-30 years ago.

• Mideast oil is discussed as though the U.S.-based multinational oil companies do not control that oil and its price.

• Nuclear power is discussed as though it is a reasonable alternative to petroleum. No mention is made of the problem of nuclear waste. No mention is made of the 30-year limited lifespan of nuclear reactors.

• Because you can fool some of the people most of the time, I believe that there are some people who believe there is some merit in nuclear energy. However, I don't think those fools make it to national television. Rather, I believe the public proponents of nuclear energy are directly or indirectly on the nuclear payroll. We are talking killer reactors and murderous proponents.

• No dumb advocate, pushing for petro and nukes, would be complete if he or she didn't make a case for more off-shore and deadly Alaskan drilling for more of the unneeded oil.