Classified

Reviews / Votes

'A fascinating study of how a long established democracy deals with the persistent conundrum of government secrecy in an open society. Essential reading for students of intelligence accountability, and especially timely given the current international discussion of leaks and information security.' David Robarge, Chief Historian, Central Intelligence Agency 'Traditionally, people have preferred to feel, rather than to know, about the rights and wrongs of state secrecy in Britain. In his highly readable book, Classified, Dr Moran does the truth great service by exploring with fair objectivity the difficult middle ground in a revealing series of milestone case studies. Wherever one chooses to stand on this thorny, arcane, contentious and fascinating issue, Moran's book will certainly leave its readers far better informed.' Andrew Vallance, Secretary, 'D Notice' Committee 'A fascinating and timely account of how successive British governments have viewed official secrets and the sometimes extraordinary measures they have taken to protect them. Dr Moran puts into clear perspective how those views of secrecy have evolved through the years including use of the D Notice, a measure often viewed with envy by bureaucrats in Washington. A valuable contribution to the study of government secrecy, Dr Moran's work will enhance the reader's grasp of the fundamental issues raised.' Peter Earnest, Executive Director, International Spy Museum, Washington, DC 'Moran tells these stories ... with a historian's care, but also with a real flair for narrative ... authoritative but hugely readable ...' Reader's Digest 'This is a well-researched and fascinating book ...' The Guardian 'Deeply researched and wonderfully informative ...' New Statesman '... this is a well-researched and well-written book that is a worthy contribution to our understanding of government secrecy. The lessons this book draws from the postwar period are every bit as resonant today as they were in their time: the extent to which the public is left to trust its government to act on its behalf and to impinge on their liberties for the greater good is a key and fluid element of our social contract. All those interested in this question should seek out Moran's book and its lessons from history.' International Affairs