LIVE: MPs debate Peter Mandelson scandal as Labour MP warns he’ll insurgent in opposition to Starmer
MPs are debating a motion demanding the release of papers on Lord Peter Mandelson’s appointment as Britain’s Ambassador to the US.
On an opposition day debate in the Commons, the Tories requested the Government release documents in full about the appointment of the disgraced Labour veteran. The party is demanding to know how much Keir Starmer knew about Lord Mandelson’s links to Jeffrey Epstein.
It comes after Keir Starmer launched a blistering attack on Lord Mandelson at PMQs, saying he “betrayed our country” and lied repeatedly to Downing Street over his links to Epstein. It was confirmed this morning Mr Starmer will release papers relating to Lord Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador. But the PM has admitted some information will need to be exempt from the release due to national security concerns.
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Labour MP John McDonnell said he will rebel on Keir Starmer’s amendment
Labour MP John McDonnell said he will rebel on Keir Starmer’s amendment to the motion demanding the release of papers on Lord Peter Mandelson’s appointment, arguing that it could lead to a cover-up.
The former shadow chancellor said: “I will vote against the Government’s amendment today that tries to exclude papers from the inquiry into Mandelson on the grounds ‘prejudicial to international relations’.
“This is so wide that it opens up the Prime Minister to allegations of collusion in a cover-up.”
Tories demand answers in opposition day debate
The Tories are demanding to know how much Keir Starmer knew about Lord Mandelson’s links to Jeffrey Epstein.
Kemi Badenoch’s party has used its opposition day debate to raise the issue in the Commons.
Shadow Cabinet minister Alex Burghart opened the debate for the Tories.
It was confirmed this morning Mr Starmer will release papers relating to Lord Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador. But the PM has admitted some information will need to be exempt from the release due to national security concerns.
