After years of research scientists are ready to reveal their greatest triumph - a virulent germ that can stamp out bubonic and syphus epidemics. However, the Authority invokes the Official Secrets Act and gags the team, claiming that in the wrong hands this formula could be used for germ warfare. A bitter conflict between science and bureaucracy ensues, with the stakes being raised immeasurably when a bitter ex-serviceman persuades one of the research team to part with highly confidential documents...