Prior to the events of this novel, the world had become overpopulated due invention of a drug that lets people live forever.

Peter, with the encouragement and support of his girlfriend Anna, who he lives with, initially plans to decline to sign the Declaration.

While attempting to steal a document from his grandfather's office, a task which is surprisingly easy, Peter finds out about a planned Surplus Sterilisation Programme.

After seeming to cave to his grandfather's demands, Peter uses the opportunity of the Longevity+ press conference to reveal the company's plans to the world.

He and Anna escape to hiding in Scotland, while Jude has joined the Underground in London.