 Sylvia Anderson commends Martin Crump's script for its integration of action sequences into a plot that is "far from futuristic".Michael Coldwell, reviewing the episode for Panini UK, praises David Elliott's "assured direction" and art director Bob Bell's "outstanding" set design, as well as the script's "balance of action, futuristic technology and distinctively quirky characterisation".He considers Barrett's impression of Edith Evans "in full Lady Bracknell mode" to be a "fine match" for the character of the Duchess.