Deviance normalised? An analysis of British cover-ups informed by actor-network theory

As demonstrated by the scandals of Hillsborough, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Alder Hey, Post Office, contaminated blood and Grenfell Tower, cover-ups are a feature of Britain's political landscape. Too frequently, those in positions of trust act against the public interest by covering-up their acts and omissions. Using actor-network theory, this paper explores how cover-ups are prosecuted and whose interests are served. The paper explores the motivations behind cover-ups, including the safeguarding of reputation and reward – regardless of the cost to victims and erosion of public trust. It appears that those who organise cover-ups are frequently members of the British establishment – privileged actors with shared backgrounds and interests. Finally, the paper notes how the pluralism of British society, with power shared amongst institutions and actors such as Parliament, the judiciary, trade unions, advocacy groups and the Fourth Estate, supports efforts to expose the cover-up. The paper hypothesises that any diminution of pluralism would threaten public safety.