THE TANGLED WEBS OF WESTMINSTER AND WHITEHALL: THE DISCOURSE, STRATEGY AND PRACTICE OF NETWORKING WITHIN THE BRITISH CORE EXECUTIVE.

In this paper we identify and seek to resolve a certain paradox in the existing literature on networks and networking. Whilst earlier policy network perspectives have tended to emphasize the structural character of networks as durable, dense and relatively static organization forms, the more recent strategic network literature emphasizes the flexible, adaptive and dynamic quality of networking as a social and political practice. However, neither perspective has yet developed a theory of network formation, evolution, transformation and termination. In this paper, we seek to rectify this omission, advancing a 'strategic relational' theory of network dynamics based on a rethinking of the concept of network itself. We illustrate this perspective with respect to the policy process centred in and around Westminster and Whitehall, drawing on a series of semi-structured interviews with ministers and officials from four departments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]