Keir Starmer’s political troubles deepened today as Angela Rayner led a faction of Labour MPs demanding full oversight of the vetting process behind Lord Peter Mandelson’s appointment as UK ambassador to the US.
The revolt came after a tense Prime Minister’s Questions session where Starmer accused the former Cabinet minister of betraying the nation and vowed to strip him of his Lord title and remove him from the Privy Council.
“The House deserves transparency,” Rayner said, calling for the Intelligence and Security Committee to review what material is made public.
Starmer, meanwhile, acknowledged that while he had known about Mandelson’s continued ties to Jeffrey Epstein after Epstein’s conviction, some information would have to be withheld for national security and ongoing police investigations.
Starmer Confronts Betrayal in the Commons
During PMQs, Starmer described Mandelson’s actions as a “betrayal” and insisted that the former New Labour architect had lied throughout the appointment process.
He said: “If I knew then what I know now, he would never have been anywhere near Government.”
He added that the Cabinet Secretary had referred key material to the Metropolitan Police, sparking a criminal investigation into allegations that Mandelson passed market-sensitive information to Epstein while in office.
Tensions Over National Security Exemptions
While Parliament is set to receive a wide range of documents on the controversial appointment, Starmer’s government is pushing for a “national security and international relations” exemption.
Critics, including Labour MPs and Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, argue that this allows ministers to effectively mark their own homework.
Badenoch highlighted that the decision to appoint Mandelson “goes to the very heart of this Prime Minister’s judgment” and called for full disclosure of all Cabinet Office emails and minutes relating to the vetting process.
Cross-Party Outrage and Labour Division
Labour figures such as Wes Streeting have voiced deep frustration with Mandelson, citing a profound sense of personal and political betrayal.
“He betrayed two prime ministers, our country, Epstein’s victims, and our values,” Streeting told Times Radio.
Yet some backbench Labour MPs are torn, with speculation that a few may abstain from votes, adding to the internal pressure on Starmer.
Police Investigations Intensify
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that they had opened an investigation into Mandelson for misconduct in public office, with maximum penalties of life imprisonment.
Newly released US Department of Justice documents and emails suggest Mandelson shared sensitive policy information, including details on the sale of Royal Bank of Scotland assets, with Epstein.
Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown also provided “relevant” information to the police, noting that Cabinet officials had failed to act on his earlier warnings.
Mandelson Steps Down but Retains Influence
Lord Mandelson announced he would resign from the House of Lords, though his title will remain unless further legislation is passed.
He insists his career in public life is not over, even as Starmer and Cabinet officials move to limit the fallout.
Starmer confirmed that all possible information on the vetting process will be published, while ensuring that details potentially prejudicial to ongoing investigations are withheld.
Political Showdown Looms
The stage is set for a dramatic confrontation in Parliament as MPs debate the humble address motion — an unusual procedure compelling the government to release documents.
Starmer is attempting to balance transparency, legal obligations, and national security, while Tory MPs and parts of his own party push for full disclosure.
With the criminal investigation ongoing and public anger high, the Mandelson affair is shaping up to be a defining moment for Starmer’s leadership.
Prime Minister’s Acknowledgment of Epstein Ties
Starmer admitted that Mandelson maintained his friendship with Epstein after his initial conviction, though the full scope of their relationship was previously unknown.
“He lied about that to everyone for years,” the Prime Minister told the Commons.
“The new information that came to light showed the relationship was materially different from what we had been led to believe.”
Government Assures Cooperation With Police
Cabinet officials emphasized that the government stands ready to support the police investigation.
A spokesperson said: “The Government stands ready to provide whatever support and assistance the police need,” signaling full cooperation as the scandal continues to unfold.
The Fallout Continues
As Parliament prepares for further debate and the release of documents, Starmer faces intense scrutiny both from within Labour and across the political spectrum.
The combination of criminal investigation, political revolt, and questions over national security exemptions makes this one of the most volatile episodes of his premiership to date.
