All the 'stuff' about design & systemic issues is valid, but shouldn't people be punished for not reporting or cooperating &/or lying ?
Yes. See comments above about ACAS, CE, DGAS2 and CDP. I assume you’re not talking specifically about the pilot, as he was found not guilty of this. One problem is that, on MoD’s own admission, the regulatory authority (MAA) does not have anyone who has ever reported such offences, yet claims each member has vast experience and exposure to the failings.
Within the context of a just culture we want people to put their hands up when they get it wrong.
Military reckless definition, a conscious & substantial & unjustifiable disregard for risk. Surely if, within the context of a just culture, people do not 'own up' or cooperate with an investigation they greatly increase the risk of recurrence?
Correct. But there are many examples, too, of prior notification of failings and the “system” flatly refusing to act to prevent occurrence. Classic examples; Nimrod XV230, Tornado ZG710, Hercules XV179……. In the case of Tornado, the formal notification to 2 Star was later that year cited in an annual report as good reason to mark the person down and withhold promotion recommendations and performance pay. Staff were formally notified of these decisions by their Trades Union, the clear message being; if you report wrongdoing, you’re in the crap.
This of course assumes you have a just culture and believe reporting is 'safe'!!
Reporting is demonstrably not safe. MoD manages by bullying, and staff have been threatened with dismissal for reporting immediate risks to life. We await word of what action is to be taken against the SI officer who (allegedly) threatened the two pilots. It will be interesting to see if he cites precedent.