Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has denied misleading the House of Commons about the vetting process for Lord Peter Mandelson’s appointment as UK ambassador to the US. Starmer told MPs in September 2025 that the “full due process was followed” despite emerging concerns over Mandelson’s continued relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, which later led to Mandelson’s dismissal.
Documents Reveal Concerns During Mandelson’s Vetting
Last week, the government published the first tranche of files relating to Mandelson’s appointment and sacking. The documents show that Starmer and his then chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, were informed about Mandelson’s association with Epstein, including visits to Epstein’s residence while Epstein was in jail. The files also indicated potential “reputational risk” and featured warnings from Jonathan Powell, then the national security adviser, who described the vetting as “weirdly rushed.”
Despite these concerns, Starmer maintained that the existing process was followed, though he acknowledged that it was “not strong enough” and pledged to strengthen vetting procedures. Among the reforms he announced is a new rule preventing the government from announcing ambassadorial appointments before vetting is complete.
Calls for Further Investigation and Criticism
Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties have called for an independent ethics investigation into Starmer’s handling of Mandelson’s appointment. Tory officials alleged a “cover-up” due to blank sections in the documents reserved for the Prime Minister’s comments, though government sources said no redactions were made and the sections were left unfilled.
Starmer’s office rejected accusations of a cover-up, while Conservative critics argued the Prime Minister has failed to fully accept responsibility, blaming others instead. Sir Laurie Magnus, the independent ethics adviser, stated last week that the documents show the relevant process for a political appointment had been followed. Unlike traditional diplomatic posts, ambassadorial roles like Mandelson’s can be political appointments.
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