The rules we're using for the game promote promote the use of talking and thinking your way out of situations. Combat is very much a last resort (as you pointed out - in the series the Doctor rarely actually engages in a physical confrontation) and can be very deadly.
I'm sure Dave Chapman (the Line Developer for the Who RPG) will be posting more about various features on his Designer Blog (http://heartofthetardis.blogspot.com/) over the coming months and we'll also be extensively playtesting it with various groups around the world in the coming months.
Best wishes,
Angus Abranson
Cubicle 7 Ent.
London, UK