Sir Keir Starmer is facing growing pressure over his judgement after the sacking of Lord Mandelson, following renewed scrutiny of his links to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.
Lord Mandelson was removed from his post as the UK’s Ambassador to the United States after days of political pressure and public criticism.
The SNP said the dismissal was “inevitable” and has demanded full transparency over what the Prime Minister knew and when.
In Westminster, questions are being raised over the vetting process behind Mandelson’s appointment and whether concerns were ignored.
SNP Westminster Leader Stephen Flynn said the episode had “shattered confidence” in the Prime Minister’s authority.
“Peter Mandelson’s sacking was inevitable, but the questions are now piling up for Keir Starmer who appointed him and stood by him until he had no other choice,” said Flynn.
“Keir Starmer’s judgement, his reputation and his authority are now on the line.”
Among the questions being asked:
- What documents relating to Epstein were known to Downing Street at the time of Mandelson’s appointment?
- Were concerns about Mandelson’s friendship with Epstein raised with the Prime Minister or his team?
- Was the appointment given additional scrutiny in light of Mandelson’s past scandals?
- Will the full vetting process and all associated correspondence now be released?
- Did the Prime Minister see any of this information before publicly backing Mandelson at Prime Minister’s Questions?
- Will Mandelson retain his seat in the House of Lords or face further sanctions?
Flynn added:
“Peter Mandelson has been a walking scandal since the days of Tony Blair, the real question is why he was ever appointed in the first place.
“This isn’t the end of the scandal.
“Until every document is released and every question is answered, it will go on and on.”
There has been no official comment yet from Downing Street on whether Mandelson will retain the Labour whip in the Lords or whether records from the appointment process will be made public.
