MPs have approved the release of documents relating to Lord Peter Mandelson’s appointment as British ambassador to the United States.
It follows a humiliating climbdown from Sir Keir Starmer, who tabled an amendment about which documents relating to Lord Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador could be released, which received backlash from his own backbenches, including his former deputy Angela Rayner, who agreed with the Tory argument that all papers should go to the Intelligence and Security Committee.
MPs and peers on the Intelligence and Security Committee will decide which documents will be released, after the prime minister had initially tabled a so-called manuscript amendment with little notice, which required some “papers prejudicial to UK national security or international relations” to be withheld.
The Metropolitan Police have asked the government not to publish certain documents that they say undermine their investigation, but Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle said the force had no jurisdiction over the Commons.
Lord Mandelson officially retired from the Lords after files released by the US Department of Justice (DoJ) last Friday appear to show he leaked sensitive government information to Epstein while serving as business secretary in Gordon Brown's Labour administration.
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Key Points
- Ex-US ambassador retires from Lords
- MPs and peers to decide which Mandelson documents released as Starmer climbs down
- Starmer’s judgement questioned over his appointment of Mandelson
- MPs approve release of Mandelson-Epstein documents
- Angela Rayner intervenes to support the Tory demands
- PM to press ahead with stripping Mandelson of his title
Watch: Starmer admits he was aware of Mandelson's relationship with Epstein when making appointment
04:00 , Bryony GoochLabour's Mainstream group calls for 'clean break' after 'betrayal' of Mandelson appointment
03:00 , Bryony GoochThe controversy surrounding Lord Mandelson – who has quit the House of Lords, resigned from the Labour Party, been removed from the Privy Council and faces a criminal investigation following new revelations from the so-called Epstein files – has led to intensifying questions about Sir Keir’s political future.
Labour’s Mainstream group called for a “clean break” after the “betrayal” of the peer’s appointment to “one of the most powerful diplomatic posts on the planet” despite his friendship with Epstein being public knowledge.
The centre-left grouping, which is backed by Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham – long seen as a potential leadership rival to Sir Keir – said its members did not want to watch the party “succumb to the same old sickness” of “elite privilege, spin and toxic factionalism”.
Labour rebels force PM into humiliating climbdown on Mandelson files
02:00 , Bryony Gooch
Labour rebels force Starmer into humiliating climbdown on Mandelson files
Watch: Most shocking emails between Mandelson and Epstein
01:00 , Bryony GoochAnne McElvoy: Epstein will be remembered as an even bigger scandal than the Profumo affair
00:00 , Bryony Gooch
In Britain, Epstein will go down as an even bigger scandal than the Profumo affair
Pictured: Starmer in House of Commons
23:00 , Bryony Gooch
Starmer to ward that communities' 'devastating decline' could impact national security in bid to move on from Mandelson
22:48 , Bryony GoochSir Keir Starmer will warn that communities’ “devastating decline” could imperil national security, as he seeks to move on from the growing anger over the Lord Peter Mandelson scandal.
The prime minister will say “Britain has been undermined by political neglect” on Thursday as £800 million in new funding to revamp decrepit high streets is announced.
Sir Keir is expected to say: “Britain has been undermined by political neglect, the scorched earth of Tory austerity. In towns across Britain, the same story, high streets, youth clubs – the places that shape a life – that bring different people together, that create the bonds of memory and pride – they were just abandoned.
“Because politics in this dangerous era is no longer about left and right, but a contest between renewal and grievance. Between those who accept the idea that society is a zero-sum competition and those who believe we can unite for the higher purpose.”
Marr: There's 'no way back' for the Prime Minister
22:29 , Bryony GoochAndrew Marr has declared “We have entered the final stage of the Starmer premiership” as there is “no way back for the Prime Minister, live on LBC.
'We have entered the final stage of the Starmer premiership.'
— LBC (@LBC) February 4, 2026
@AndrewMarr9 says there's 'no way back' for the Prime Minister. pic.twitter.com/GlQ1hfu0zx
Starmer gives in on civil servant veto plan
22:00 , Jane DaltonDocuments will be released by the Cabinet Secretary working with lawyers or, for material deemed to potentially conflict with national security or foreign relations, it will be passed to the Intelligence and Security Committee to decide, a minister has said.
The Prime Minister had backed down from his original plan for top civil servant Sir Chris Wormald to decide which documents could not be released on national security grounds or because they could prejudice international relations.
Under pressure from Labour MPs, led by former deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, Sir Keir Starmer accepted the decision could be made by Parliament's Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) instead.
Minister Chris Ward told the Commons: "I just want to confirm to the house the material will not be released today because of the conversation with the Metropolitan Police over that, but it will be released as quickly as possible, in line with the process set out before the House."
He said there was "a lot of material" to go through and pointed to other humble addresses that have taken "weeks or months".
Starmer biographer says PM had 'misgivings' about appointing Mandelson to begin with
21:30 , Bryony GoochSir Keir Starmer’s biographer has said the documents that will be published relating to Peter Mandelson's vetting must show that the PM "knew more than was already in the public domain" for it to be damaging to his premiership.
Speaking to Sky News, Tom Baldwin questioned whether "anybody seriously thinks" Sir Keir would appoint Mandelson now, with the knowledge now available.
"I do think it's difficult to question someone's judgement unless you know what facts they had at their disposal beforehand," he added.
"So I think for people to say this was a scandalous misjudgement, yeah, they have to show that Keir Starmer knew more than was already in the public domain at the time of the time, and presumably that's what the inquiry will find out."
Watch: Lord Speaker announces Peter Mandelson to step down from House of Lords
21:00 , Bryony GoochGovernment to comply with MP-backed motion
20:48 , Bryony GoochNo 10 has said the government would comply with a motion backed by MPs and publish documents relating to Peter Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador to the US.
A Downing Street spokesperson said: “Peter Mandelson’s actions were unforgivable.
“He lied to the Prime Minister, hid information that has since come to light and presented Jeffrey Epstein as someone he barely knew.
“We will comply with the motion, including publishing documents relating to Peter Mandelson’s appointment, which will show the lies he told.”
Minister reveals how documents will be released
20:14 , Bryony GoochA Cabinet Officer minister has set out how documents relating to Lord Peter Mandelson will be released to the Parliament’s Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC).
Chris Ward said: “Release of information will be done, either through the Cabinet Secretary working with independent lawyers, or if the material is deemed to be potentially conflicting with national security or foreign relations, it will be handed to the ISC, who are independent. They can make the decision.
He added: “There will not be political involvement for ministers.
“There will not be political involvement from Number 10 in this process – this is the cabinet secretary and the ISC working with lawyers on it.”
He said some documents could touch on sensitive issues, including foreign intelligence and trade.
Downing Street vows to honour MPs' motion
20:03 , Jane DaltonNo 10 said said the government would comply with a motion backed by MPs and publish documents relating to Peter Mandelson's appointment as ambassador to the US.
A Downing Street spokesperson said: "Peter Mandelson's actions were unforgivable.
"He lied to the Prime Minister, hid information that has since come to light and presented Jeffrey Epstein as someone he barely knew.
"We will comply with the motion, including publishing documents relating to Peter Mandelson's appointment, which will show the lies he told."
Who is Peter Mandelson and what do we know about his ties to Epstein?
20:00 , Bryony Gooch
Who is Peter Mandelson and what do we know about his relationship with Epstein?
Watch: Rayner calls for release of files related to Mandelson's US ambassador appointment
19:44 , Bryony GoochPolice have 'no jurisdiction' over Commons says Sir Lindsay Hoyle
19:29 , Bryony GoochThe Metropolitan Police has “no jurisdiction” over the Commons, Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle has said, after the force said the release of certain documents related to Lord Peter Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador to the US would “undermine” their investigation into the disgraced peer.
Sir Lindsay told the Commons: “The Metropolitan Police have no jurisdiction on what this House may wish to do. It will be whether the Government provides or not. But just to let you know, they cannot dictate to this House.
“I’m going to leave it at that.”
Conservative former minister Simon Hoare had asked the Speaker if he will be “working with the Cabinet Office to ensure that the rights and privileges of members of this House are protected”.
“You know, as well as I do, Sir, the importance of privilege to this place,” Mr Hoare said.
Analysis: Rayner wields the knife on Starmer – but will she take the crown?
19:23 , Bryony Gooch
Rayner wields the knife that could finish Starmer – but will she take the crown?
Mandelson documents won't be released today as government refuse to confirm release date
19:13 , Bryony GoochDocuments relating to Lord Peter Mandelson’s appointment as British ambassador will not be released today, a Cabinet Office minister has said.
Chris Ward told the Commons: “I just want to confirm to the house the material will not be released today because of the conversation with the Metropolitan Police over that, but it will be released as quickly as possible, in line with the process set out before the House.”
He did not confirm when the documents would be released but said it would be “as soon as possible”.
“We want to get with this,” he said.
“There is a lot of material here to go through. We will get through this as quickly as possible. Other humble, other humble addresses have taken a number of weeks or months.”
Recap: Starmer's hands appeared to be shaking as he talked about Mandelson in PMQs
19:12 , Bryony GoochSir Keir Starmer appeared to be visibly nervous as he answered questions about Lord Mandelson in PMQs.
Footage published on social media shows his hands visibly shaking.
Great spot by @Con_Tomlinson - Starmer’s hands shaking whilst discussing Mandelson in the Commons. He knows he’s done. pic.twitter.com/TU3WArU0fp
— Patrick Christys (@PatrickChristys) February 4, 2026
Breaking: MPs approve release of documents
19:05 , Bryony GoochAfter a long day of debate, MPs have approved the release of documents relating to Lord Peter Mandelson’s appointment as British ambassador to the United States.
The net is closing in on Starmer’s righthand man
18:55 , Bryony GoochDavid Maddox, political editor, reports:
Ministers and other senior figures in Labour have given the prime minister an ultimatum that he must sack his controversial chief of staff Morgan McSweeney.
It was McSweeney who pushed for Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador and brought him back into the heart of the government.
He also has been accused of bringing Mandelson back into the heart of government and the Labour Party.
One minister told The Independent: "Morgan has to go - and should have gone months ago".
McSweeney was already under fire for a failed Downing Street briefing against health secretary Wes Streeting before Christmas and has been focus of anger from MPs as Starmer’s government has struggled in the polls.Tory leader Kemi Badenoch referred to him as “poison” in the heart of government.
Farage asks European Anti-Fraud Office to investigate Mandelson
18:51 , Bryony GoochReform UK leader Nigel Farage has written to the European Anti-Fraud Office asking them to investigate whether Peter Mandelson used his tenure as EU Trade Commissioner for personal financial gain.
I have written to the European Anti-Fraud Office asking them to investigate whether Peter Mandelson used his tenure as EU Trade Commissioner for personal financial gain. pic.twitter.com/PG5w9lmgd1
— Nigel Farage MP (@Nigel_Farage) February 4, 2026
The 11 most explosive emails between Epstein and Mandelson
18:45 , Bryony Gooch
Starmer ducks Mandelson debate in the Commons
18:40 , Bryony GoochKate Devlin, Whitehall Editor, reports:
The prime minister has not been present for the almost six-hour long debate on Mandelson in the House of Commons.
The government’s case is currently being ‘summed up’ by a junior cabinet office minister Chris Ward, an ally of Starmer.
Earlier, Starmer faced a barrage of questions on Mandelson from Kemi Badenoch at PMQs, and was forced to admit he knew about Mandelson’s ongoing relationship with Epstein before he made him US ambassador.
Labour rebels force Starmer into humiliating climbdown on Mandelson files
18:30 , Bryony GoochLabour rebels force Starmer into humiliating climbdown on Mandelson files
Tory MP suggests Labour government would have known about Mandelson staying in Epstein's flat
18:20 , Bryony GoochMillie Cooke, Political Correspondent, reports:
"No one can say that the Labour government did not know" about Peter Mandelson staying Jeffrey Epstein's flat when he was a minister, Tory MP Alicia Kearns has said.
She explained that when she was a civil servant, she always "knew where my ministers were staying when they were abroad".
Ms Kearns told the government: "We also knew that while he was deputy prime minister of this country and business and trade secretary, carrying the flag of our great nation on an official visit to New York, he stayed in a convicted paedophile’s flat. How dare he do that while representing this country?"
She said it "raises serious questions about why he was not pursued for misconduct in public office back at that point", adding: "No one can say that the Labour government did not know.
"Because, having been a civil servant, I knew where my ministers were stying when they were abroad – not sure they always wanted me to know, but I knew. And none of them would have ever done that.”
95 per cent of Brits aware of the Mandelson-Epstein story, poll finds
18:15 , Bryony GoochKate Devlin, Whitehall Editor, reports:
A new poll shows the sheer extent to which the Mandelson scandal has reached members of the public.
Almost everyone in the country is aware of the story emerging from the latest release of the Epstein files, the survey by YouGov found.
And a whopping 44 per cent said that they were following it either very or fairly closely.
Sometimes it is a political cliche to say voters are watching what is happening in Parliament. But on this issue this poll suggests they definitely are.
Met Police asks government not to release 'certain documents' in order not to 'undermine investigation'
18:06 , Bryony GoochThe Metropolitan Police has asked the Government not to release “certain documents” relating to Jeffrey Epstein because it could “undermine our current investigation”, Commander Ella Marriott, from the force, has said.
Commander Ella Marriott said: “As with any investigation, securing and preserving any potential evidence is vital.
“For this reason, when approached by the UK Government today with their intent to publish material, we reviewed it immediately and advised that the release of specific documents could undermine our current investigation. We therefore asked them not to release certain documents at this time.
“Going forward as material is made available to us, and if we identify further documents that we believe could prejudice our investigation, we will continue to ask the Government to pause their release until such time as the risk of prejudice no longer exists. The integrity of our investigation is paramount to securing justice. We are grateful for their cooperation.
“We continue to assess all relevant information brought to our attention as part of this investigation.”
Watch: Zack Polanski slams Starmer over Mandelson-Epstein emails: 'Serious questions to answer'
18:00 , Bryony GoochAndy McDonald has 'lingering concerns' about document release process
17:45 , Bryony GoochAndy McDonald said he had “lingering concerns” about the process of releasing documents relating to Lord Mandelson’s appointment despite a Government climbdown.
The Labour MP criticised the “appalling failure of judgment” in appointing the peer.
“I think many of us have still got lingering concerns, firstly about the international relations issue, that could mean anything.”
He added that the Intelligence and Security Committee must be “rigorous” in its approach, adding: “You’re still in the situation where the Government and No 10 have got to be candid about what it releases.
“You’ve got to have a healthy degree of circumspection.”
He said he thought it was “reasonable to expect an answer pretty damn quick” on how Lord Mandelson passed vetting. “It beggars belief that we could ever get a security vetting process that would sign off affirmatively on somebody in these circumstances,” he said.
Asked about Sir Keir Starmer’s own judgment given what was already in the public domain about Lord Mandelson, Mr McDonald said: “I think that this is an appalling failure of judgment.”
Mr McDonald indicated he would back the new amendment “reluctantly” while stressing the need for “full disclosure.”
Former shadow chancellor condemns government for 'another unnecessary U-turn'
17:30 , Bryony GoochFormer shadow chancellor Jon McDonnell has criticised the government for “another unnecessary U-turn” on Sky News.
He said: "I think we're getting into the right place. But, you know, this is another unnecessary U-turn.
"I don't know what they were thinking of. They realised this would be disastrous.
"It wasn't just me writing to the chief whip, we had Labour MP after Labour MP getting up and saying they couldn't vote for the government. That's why this has happened."
Tories claim to 'call the shots' following PMQs showdown
17:12 , Bryony GoochThe Conservative party has claimed leader Kemi Badenoch is “calling the shots” after PMQs, where Sir Keir was forced to climbdown from an amendment tabled about the release of Mandelson documents
A Conservative spokesman said: “Kemi forced Starmer to admit he’d known Mandelson was still hanging out with Epstein after the child sex conviction, and No10 went ahead and appointed Mandelson anyway.
“You could feel in the Commons that was the moment Labour MPs stopped backing the Prime Minister. The government have now had to cave to Kemi’s demand for all documents to go to the ISC. Starmer is no longer in control, Kemi is calling the shots.”
Swinney orders investigation into Scottish Government dealings with Mandelson
17:12 , Bryony GoochJohn Swinney has ordered an investigation into his Government’s dealings with Peter Mandelson to see if the “interests of Scotland have been undermined”.
Lord Mandelson, who resigned from the House of Lords this week after more revelations about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein were revealed, is currently under police investigation over alleged misconduct in public office.
Speaking to ITV Border on Wednesday, first minister John Swinney questioned the Prime Minister’s judgment in appointing Lord Mandelson to the role given his friendship with Epstein was already known and said he had instructed the country’s top civil servant to launch a probe.
“What I’m now concerned about is that now we know there’s information about the supply of material by Peter Mandelson in the financial crash to Jeffrey Epstein, I’m now concerned about the implications of that for Scotland,” he said.
Voices: Mandelson affair shows the UK has become prone to moles and grifters
17:00 , Bryony Gooch
The Mandelson affair shows the UK has become prone to moles and grifters
In pictures: Starmer and Badenoch face off in heated PMQs
16:45 , Bryony Gooch
Starmer’s former deputy Angela Rayner played crucial role in Mandelson climbdown
16:37 , Bryony GoochAnalysis, by Kate Devlin, Whitehall Editor
Labour MPs lined up this afternoon to express their fury at their government’s plans to ‘check its own homework’ and decide which Mandelson papers should be released, citing national security concerns.
One Labour MP said she was “ashamed” at the plan.Amid fears of a damaging loss in a Commons vote, the government has climbed down.
Instead, ministers have agreed that parliamentarians should decide - through the Intelligence and Security Committee.
The Labour MP who spearheaded calls for such a mechanism? Angela Rayner, Sir Keir’s former deputy, and the woman often tipped as his potential successor.
Corbyn says he'd support Tories on Mandelson files
16:32 , Bryony GoochMillie Cooke, political correspondent, reports:
Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said he would support the Tories’ Opposition Day debate on the Lord Mandelson files, piling further pressure on Sir Keir Starmer.
“I for one support the opposition motion that has been put forward. And I hope it is voted on and we don’t come to some crabby deal between the government and the opposition today to get a manuscript motion that kicks the whole thing into the long grass, a long way away, on the pretence that it might affect security or might affect international relations", he said.
“Almost anything can affect international relations and that to me sounds like a way in which the government might get out of it. The question fundamentally is one for the Prime Minister and it’s a bit odd that he’s not here for the debate, it’s a bit odd that he hasn’t spoken in the debate.”
When will Parliament vote on releasing the Mandelson documents?
16:25 , Bryony GoochA vote on whether to release all documents related to Peter Mandelson’s appointment as the US ambassador could be as late as 7pm, speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle told the Commons.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has tabled a humble address motion to release documents including due diligence work carried out by the Cabinet Office and emails between Lord Mandelson and his ally Morgan McSweeney, the Prime Minister’s chief of staff.
A second opposition day debate on a social media ban for under-16s was scheduled to take place on Wednesday, but this could be ditched if the Tories decide so.
'Starmer's admission most shocking thing I've ever heard'
16:15 , Maryam Zakir-HussainShadow home secretary, Chris Philp MP, has said the prime minister’s admission about knowing Peter Mandelson’s relationship with Jeffrey Epstein continued after paedophile’s conviction is the “most shocking thing” he’s ever heard in Parliament.
I’ve been in Parliament 11 years and Starmer’s admission just now is the most shocking I’ve heard
— Chris Philp MP (@CPhilpOfficial) February 4, 2026
He just admitted he knew Mandelson’s relationship with Epstein continued after Epstein’s conviction
Yet Starmer still chose to appoint him as Ambassador
Unbelievable Starmer did…
MPs and peers to decide which Mandelson documents released as Starmer climbs down
16:08 , Bryony GoochMPs and peers on the Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) are set to decide what documents relating to Lord Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador will be released after a climbdown by Sir Keir Starmer.
Senior Labour MPs had insisted that insisted that No 10 should not have the power to decide what material is published, but initially the government had been digging its heels in, saying it would compromise national security.
The Government has now yielded to cross-party pressure and agreed that anything prejudicial will now go before the ISC - meaning they will have final say over what is published.
Female Labour MPs ‘ashamed’ at Starmer’s Labour unleash their fury over Mandelson and Epstein
15:58 , Bryony GoochAnalysis by Kate Devlin, Whitehall Editor
Female Labour MPs are lining up to unleash their anger over Peter Mandelson’s contacts with the paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.
Paula Barker, a Liverpool Labour MP, also said she was “ashamed at the amendment laid today” by her own government that would have limited the documents released about Mandelson, citing national security concerns.
Natalie Fleet, the Labour MP for Bolsover, also hit out at “powerful men” who go about unpunished by society.
Polly Billington, the Labour MP for East Thanet, called for the debate to mark the moment when MPs decide “to draw a line under the culture of certain people being 'worth the risk'.”
Labour MP calls for release of all internal Labour Party communications linked to Mandelson
15:55 , Bryony GoochMillie Cooke, political correspondent, reports:
Labour MP Apsana Begum has called for the government to release all internal Labour Party communications which concern Peter Mandelson, piling further pressure on the prime minister.
She told the Commons: "If the government is serious about its commitments around transparency, internal materials, internal communications in the Labour Party that involve Peter Mandelson in any shape or form need to be preserved and be released and be included in any upcoming or ongoing investigations."
'No more cover up': Kemi Badenoch on her interrogation of Starmer at PMQs
15:50 , Maryam Zakir-HussainIn a post online, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch says the prime minister’s “catastrophic judgement” has “endangered national security, and embarrassed our nation”.
Keir Starmer has confirmed he knew about Mandelson’s continued relationship with the paedophile Epstein when he appointed him Ambassador.
— Kemi Badenoch (@KemiBadenoch) February 4, 2026
His catastrophic judgement has harmed the special relationship, endangered national security, and embarrassed our nation.
No more cover up. pic.twitter.com/YAoP8DJ36u
Labour MP says he will vote against government's amendment
15:35 , Maryam Zakir-HussainLabour MP for Hayes and Harlington, John McDonnell, posted on social media saying he will vote against the government’s amendment today.
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.
— John McDonnell (@johnmcdonnellMP) February 4, 2026
Ex-US ambassador retires from Lords
15:32 , Maryam Zakir-HussainLord Mandelson has officially retired from the House of Lords, it has been confirmed.
In making the announcement to the upper chamber at the start of Wednesday's proceedings, the Lord Speaker Lord Forsyth of Drumlean pointedly did not thank the peer for his service to the House, as would ordinarily be customary for a departing member.
Before moving swiftly on to next business, Lord Forsyth said: "I announced in the chamber yesterday that Lord Mandelson had given notice of his retirement.
"I am now formally notifying the House of his retirement with effect from today pursuant to section one of the House of Lords Reform Act 2014."
Could Peter Mandelson be charged with treason over Epstein leaks?
15:20 , Maryam Zakir-HussainAs the shockwave from the latest revelations ripples through the political world, Sean O’Grady looks at the measures that could be taken against the former minister and peer:
Could Peter Mandelson be charged with treason over Epstein leaks?
Watch: Speaker Lindsay Hoyle tells the minister to stop hiding behind process
15:05 , Maryam Zakir-HussainGovernment rejects failing to see the US Epstein files before Mandelson’s appointment was a ‘failure of effort’
14:50 , Maryam Zakir-HussainDowning Street has rejected it was a “failure of effort” to have not seen the so-called Epstein files before Lord Peter Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador.
No 10 appeared to suggest it did not ask the US Department of Justice to see the documents, despite knowing about Lord Mandelson’s relationship with him.
Asked whether that was a failure of effort on the government’s part, Sir Keir Starmer’s official spokesman said: “I don’t accept that.”
What happens now?
14:35 , Maryam Zakir-HussainMPs have begun a debate on whether all papers relating to Lord Peter Mandelson's appointment should be released.
A shadow Cabinet Office minister told the Commons those who provided information to paedophile Jeffrey Epstein "share in some of the responsibility for the crimes that were committed".
Labour MP John McDonnell said he will rebel on Sir 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."
Mandelson’s Epstein ties were raised in checks done by government
14:15 , Holly EvansOur political correspondent Athena Stavrou writes:
It is understood that Peter Mandelson went through two vetting processes before taking up his role as US ambassador.
The first due diligence check was carried out by the Cabinet Office, based on information in the public domain - which would have included the fact Lord Mandelson continued his friendship with Epstein after his conviction.
Starmer has now suggested he was then misled by Mandelson about the nature and depth of his relationship with the paedophile.
A second security vetting process then took place.
However, it is understood ministers do not see the this part of the vetting process and are only given a recommendation by the vetting agency. Downing Street said they still have confidence in the vetting process.
Is Starmer set to make concessions to avoid damaging Commons defeat on Mandelson?
14:03 , Holly EvansOur Whitehall editor Kate Devlin reports:
The Mandelson motion that MPs are debating would require the government to release all documents relating to his appointment as US ambassador.
To counter this the prime minsiter last night tabled an amendment that would release the papers - except those ‘prejudicial to UK national security or international relations’.
But MPs are clearly unhappy.
And now the Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle has told ministers he could accept a so-called ‘manuscript amendment’ - a last minute change - if the government is forced to concede more in order to avoid a damaging defeat over the scandal.
Earlier Sir Keir’s former deputy as prime minister Angela Rayner backed Tory demands that all documents should be run through the Intelligence and Security Committee of parliamentarians, for them to decide what amounted to national security concerns.
National security should not be used to protect Labour 'blushes', says MP
13:55 , Holly EvansNational security concerns should not be used to protect the Labour Party’s “blushes”, a former deputy prime minister said.
In the Commons, Tory MP Sir Oliver Dowden said: “There is a vast difference between protecting national security, for example, in direct intelligence reports from agents on the ground or intercept and subjective judgments made about things that may embarrass national security or may embarrass international relations.
“And that’s why the leader of the Opposition was precisely correct to say we need some independent mechanism.
“So why on earth can’t we agree that the ISC should look at each of these exemptions, and if they feel it passes that threshold, fine, we’ll accept it because we need to protect national security, but it can’t be to spare the party opposite’s blushes.”
MPs will vote on a humble address motion tabled by Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch which would require the Government to release all documents relating to Peter Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador.
The Prime Minister has tabled a counter motion which allows the release of the documents, but “except papers prejudicial to UK national security or international relations”.
No10 did not ask US authorities to see Epstein files on Mandelson ahead of appointment
13:49 , Holly EvansThe Government did not ask the US Department of Justice to see the so-called Epstein files before Lord Peter Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador in Washington, Downing Street appeared to suggest.
No 10 dodged repeated questions on whether a request was made to view documents related to the peer before their publication, given his friendship with paedophile Jeffrey Epstein was known.
Pressed on whether that represented a failure of effort on the Government’s part, Sir Keir Starmer’s official spokesman said: “I don’t accept that.”
The official pointed to the Prime Minister’s remarks that the information that emerged in September and in recent days – revealing the extent of the Labour grandee’s ties to Epstein – was materially different to what was known at the time of Lord Mandelson’s appointment.
Peter Mandelson is a traitor, says MP for Hartlepool
13:45 , Holly EvansOur Whitehall correspondent Kate Devlin writes:
Before he was a peer, Lord Mandelson was for years the Labour MP for Hartlepool.
Today, one of his successors, the Labour MP Jonathan Brash has called him a traitor in the House of Commons.
He told MPs: “I am the Member of Parliament for Hartlepool, and …when I look at the evidence before us I say undoubtedly that Peter Mandelson is a traitor.”
Speaker Lindsay Hoyle tells the minister to stop hiding behind process
13:41 , Holly EvansOur political editor David Maddox writes:
Sir Lindsay Hoyle has made a difficult day worse for the government with an intervention from the Speaker’s chair telling the ministers that they cannot hide behind legal process.
The minister Nick Thomas-Symonds had attempted to use the fact that there is a police investigation into Mandelson that he cannot answer questions fully.
But Sir Lindsay has ruled from the chair the sub judice rules do not apply because no charges have been brought. Nor have the Metropolitan Police contacted him personally.
He tells the minister that there is no reason he cannot answer questions and points in full and suggests that he was trying to “hide behind process”.
Badenoch: 'This is not about national security, this is about job security'
13:35 , Maryam Zakir-HussainKemi Badenoch has said she fears Labour MPs could vote to "withhold anything to do with international relations", which could cover almost anything to do with Lord Peter Mandelson's appointment as London's ambassador to the United States.
The Conservative leader told the Commons: "The Prime Minister is talking about national security - the national security issue was appointing Mandelson in the first place."
Referring to a vote expected in Parliament later on Wednesday, Mrs Badenoch later added: "This is not about national security - this is about (Sir Keir Starmer's) job security.
"His amendment lets him withhold anything to do with international relations but this whole appointment is to do with international relations, so if they're voting for it, they are voting for the cover up.
"If the Prime Minister is serious about national security concerns, then he should ask the Intelligence and Security Committee to decide which documents should be released. Will he commit to doing so here and now?"
Prime Minister Sir Keir replied: "I've set out the process - it won't be a political process, it will be led by the Cabinet Secretary (Sir Chris Wormald), supported by the Government legal teams."
Sir Keir said he hoped MPs would understand "the sensitivity of information about security and intelligence and trade relations that are inevitably caught in exchanges of the nature that have been asked for".
Labour MP will rebel on Starmer's amendment to Mandelson papers
13:25 , Holly EvansLabour MP John McDonnell said he will rebel on Sir 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.”
Angela Rayner intervenes to support the Tory demands
13:23 , Holly EvansOur political editor David Maddox writes:
Former deputy prime minister Angela Rayner, a woman now being discussed as a potential replacement for Keir Starmer, has just intervened to support the Tory demands.
She noted that she brought a humble address in 2022 and agreed with the Tory argument that all documents should be run through the Intelligence and Security Committee of parliamentarians for them to decide if they were not appropriate to share because of national security concerns.
This is a significant intervention and will be seen as giving some wavering Labour MPs permission to vote against the government amendment for it to be allowed to sift out documents.
Watch: Starmer admits he was aware of Mandelson's relationship with Epstein when making appointment
13:21 , Holly EvansJeremy Corbyn takes his revenge
13:20 , Maryam Zakir-HussainDavid Maddox reports:
Jeremy Corbyn has just intervened in the debate on releasing the vetting documents on Mandelson.
He notes that this goes wider “covering the gilded circle around Mandelson”.
The former Labour leader and opponent of New Labour calls for an inquiry “into the wider corruption” that this scandal threatens to expose.
Tories make allegations about corruption involving the PM and Mandelson
13:19 , Holly EvansShadow chancellor of Duchy of Lancaster Alex Burghart has just raised the issue of Palantir which was awarded a £240 million contract by the government.
Mandelson was a shareholder in Palantir and arranged an off diary meeting with them in Washington DC with Sir Keir Starmer when the PM was visiting the US on official business.
Mr Burghart has now demanded communications involved in that meeting and the subsequent contract award.
He says that “it calls into question” Mandelson’s conduct when he was ambassador to the US beyond the questions around his appointment.
Sir Ed Davey says Epstein victims 'deserve far better'- part two
13:10 , Maryam Zakir-HussainResponding to Sir Ed Davey, Sir Keir Starmer said: "We looked at the material, there was a process. He will understand there was then a security vetting exercise as well. And that's why I started by saying all of our thoughts are with the victims of Epstein."
Sir Ed replied: "I think the victims of Jeffrey Epstein deserve far better than that, they deserve Peter Mandelson not being appointed in the first place."
Calling for a public inquiry, he asked: "Is the Prime Minister concerned that Peter Mandelson may have been leaking state secrets, not just to a paedophile American financier, but also a Russian agent?"
Sir Keir said that the focus must be on the criminal investigation and that the Government will co-operate with it "wherever it goes".
Sir Ed Davey says Epstein victims 'deserve far better'- part one
13:04 , Maryam Zakir-HussainSir Ed Davey said Jeffrey Epstein's victims "deserve far better" and called for a public inquiry "to get justice for the victims and to protect our national security" at Prime Minister's Questions.
The Liberal Democrats leader said: "I've been thinking how it must feel for the victims of Jeffrey Epstein and their families, hearing more and more stories of how rich, powerful men were currying favour with a paedophile sex trafficker, such as Peter Mandelson sending government secrets to help Epstein enrich himself further, seeing Mandelson made ambassador to the United States, even after his links to Epstein had been extensively reported by both the Financial Times and Channel 4 News.
"So can the Prime Minister tell us, given he now admits he knew about those links, before he gave such an important job to one of Epstein's closest friends, did he think at all about Epstein's victims?"
Starmer: 'Mandelson's responsible for a litany of deceit'
12:50 , Maryam Zakir-HussainClosing his PMQs exchange with Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, Sir Keir Starmer told the Commons: "I'm as angry as anyone about what Mandelson has been up to.
"The disclosures that have been made this week of him passing sensitive information at the height of the response to the 2008 financial crash is utterly shocking and appalling.
"He's betrayed our country. He's lied repeatedly. He's responsible for a litany of deceit.
"But this moment demands not just anger but action.
"And that's why we've moved quickly referring material to the police, publishing legislation so we can remove titles from disgraced politicians, and stripping Mandelson of his privy counsellorship.
"That is what the public expect and that is what we will do."
Starmer’s issue with character judgement not only a Mandelson problem
12:45 , Maryam Zakir-HussainDavid Maddox reports:
Tory MP Charlie Dewhirst has just asked a question on Sir Keir Starmer’s relationship with the disgraced lawyer Phil Shiner who pursued British service personnel and fished for cases to bring against them.
A tribunal debarred Shiner finding him “guilty of multiple professional misconduct charges, including dishonesty and lack of integrity". He was later convicted of fraud.
Mr Dewhirst noted that Sir Keir had authored a chapter in Shiner’s book and asked if he had ever been instructed as a barrister by him.
The PM looked rattled and replied that he had “nothing to do with Phil Shiner” as soon as he realised he was involved with wrongdoing.
But a little like Mandelson, it appears that Sir Keir has allowed himself to get involved with someone who turned out to be a highly questionable individual.
Starmer says McSweeney is 'essential part' of Downing Street team
12:40 , Maryam Zakir-HussainDowning Street chief of staff Morgan McSweeney is "an essential part" of the No 10 team, Sir Keir Starmer has said.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch told the Commons: "He says the Cabinet Secretary (Sir Chris Wormald) makes it non-political, but that doesn't make it independent. What we want is an independent look. The (Intelligence and Security Committee) is independent - the Cabinet Secretary works for him.
"We know that there will be a cover up because this implicates the Prime Minister and his chief of staff Morgan McSweeney, a protege of Peter Mandelson.
"The Prime Minister chose to inject Mandelson's poison into the heart of his Government on the advice of Morgan McSweeney."
Mrs Badenoch asked: "After all of this, does he have the same full confidence in Morgan McSweeney that he had in Peter Mandelson?"
Sir Keir replied: "Morgan McSweeney is an essential part of my team. He helped me change the Labour Party and win an election. Of course, I have confidence.
"But whatever is slung across this despatch box, I don't think it's right for the Cabinet Secretary to be denigrated in that way and to suggest that he would be involved in a cover-up."
Tory spokesman says 'very serious questions' raised over PM's judgement
12:34 , Maryam Zakir-HussainIn response to the PMQs, a Conservative spokesman said: “The prime minister has just admitted that the official security vetting highlighted Mandelson’s ongoing relationship with the paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, but he went ahead and appointed him anyway.
“This is the first time the prime minister has admitted this and it raises very serious questions over Keir Starmer’s shocking judgement.
“The PM is now trying to orchestrate a cover up by having his own government mark his homework. All MPs must now support the Conservatives’ humble address so that we reveal the full extent of this scandal and the shocking failure of Keir Starmer and his operation.”
Badenoch urges Labour MPs to vote in favour of releasing all Mandelson documents
12:30 , Maryam Zakir-HussainTory leader Kemi Badenoch urged Labour MPs to vote in favour of releasing all documents relating to Lord Peter Mandelson's appointment, "not just the ones the prime minister wants us to see".
In the Commons, she said: "How can he stand up there saying that he knew, but he just asked Peter Mandelson if the security vetting was true or false? This is a man who had been sacked from Cabinet twice already for unethical behaviour.
"That is absolutely shocking, and that is why later today, my party will call on the government to release all documents relating to Mandelson's appointment. Not just the ones the prime minister wants us to see.
"Because this government is trying to sabotage that release with an amendment to let him choose what we see. Labour MPs now have to decide if they want to be accessories to his cover up. Can the prime minister guarantee that he won't remove the whip if they refuse to vote for his whitewash amendment?"
Sir Keir Starmer replied: "The first exemption is in relation to anything that could compromise national security. That is not a small matter, and many members on the benches opposite will know precisely why that needs to be in the exemption."
He added: "The second exemption is in relation to things that would prejudice international relations. There will be discussions about security and intelligence and trade which are highly sensitive to the two countries involved and to third countries."
PM says Mandelson 'misrepresented the extent of his relationship with Epstein' during vetting process
12:26 , Maryam Zakir-HussainSir Keir Starmer said Lord Peter Mandelson's relationship with paedophile Jeffrey Epstein was included in the official security vetting but the former US ambassador "completely misrepresented the extent of his relationship".
In the Commons, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said: "The Prime Minister cannot blame the process. He did know, it was on Google. If the Conservative research department could find this information out, why couldn't Number 10?
"On the 10th of September, when we knew this, I asked him at that despatch box, he gave Mandelson his full confidence at that despatch box, not once, but twice. He only sacked him after pressure from us."
She added: "Can the Prime Minister tell us did the official security vetting he received mention Mandelson's ongoing relationship with the paedophile Jeffrey Epstein?"
Sir Keir replied: "Yes it did. As a result, various questions were put to him.
"I intend to disclose to this House all of the - national security prejudice to international relations on one side - I want to make sure this House sees the full documentation so it will see for itself the extent to which time and time again Mandelson completely misrepresented the extent of his relationship with Epstein and lied throughout the process, including in response to the due diligence."
Morgan McSweeney now in full focus
12:22 , Maryam Zakir-HussainDavid Maddox reports:
Kemi Badenoch has turned her fire on the prime minister’s right hand man, his chief of staff Morgan McSweeney.
McSweeney was the one who was understood to be at the heart of appointing Mandelson to be ambassador of the US and then pleading to not sack him.
Ms Badenoch asked if the prime minister has confidence in McSweeney.
Sir Keir replies: “Of course I do…he won an election.”
A number of Labour MPs behind Sir Keir will be quietly cheering Ms Badenoch for going after McSweeney who himself was a protege of Mandelson.
PM admits he was aware of Mandelson's relationship with Epstein when making appointment
12:19 , Maryam Zakir-HussainSir Keir Starmer said he was aware of Lord Peter Mandelson's ongoing relationship with Jeffrey Epstein when he appointed him as ambassador to the US.
He added that the House will see the "full documentation" and "the extent to which time and time again Mandelson completely misrepresented the extent of his relationship with Epstein and lied throughout the process".
Analysis: Kemi Badenoch moves Mandelson scandal on to Starmer’s personal judgement
12:16 , Maryam Zakir-HussainDavid Maddox reports:
Kemi Badenoch clearly sees that the prime minister is exposed for appointing Mandelson in the first place to the UK’s most important diplomatic post.
She is pushing on what Sir Keir knew when making Mandelson ambassador to the US, pointing out that many of the revelations could have been found “with a simple Google search”.
This boils down to the debate later in the day on the Humble Address to publish all the documents about the vetting of Mandelson for the post.
Sir Keir wants to exempt all material which would “prejudice national security” and other material on “highly sensitive” international discussions.
He is preparing to add material which might “prejudice the criminal investigation” into Mandelson.
Ms Badenoch argues that this is “a whitewash amendment” and warns Labour MPs about voting for it.
In the end though this will come down to a question of whether Sir Keir’s judgement was badly awry last year when he made the appointment. At a time when his position is weak this could be pivotal.
Met Police warn Starmer over publishing information that could prejudice investigation
12:15 , Maryam Zakir-HussainMillie Cooke reports:
The Met Police have been in touch with the prime minister to "raise issues about anything that would prejudice their investigation", Sir Keir Starmer has said.
The PM, who was met with laughter in the Commons as he said he wanted to be "totally open" with MPs in the House, went on: "You and the House will appreciate that in the course of discussions, country to country, there are very sensitive issues of security, intelligence and trade which cannot be disclosed without compromising the relationship between the two countries or a third country.
“Mr Speaker, so I can be totally open with the House, the Metropolitan Police have been in touch with my office this morning to raise issues about anything that would prejudice their investigation.
“We're in discussion with them about that and I hope to be able to update the House. But I do think I should make that clear to the House because those discussions are ongoing."
Starmer confirms he will release Mandelson vetting documents
12:14 , Maryam Zakir-HussainAthena Stavrou reports:
The prime minister has confirmed he will publish documents related to the vetting process Peter Mandelson underwent before he was appointed US ambassador.
The documents are expected to include information on the vetting process Lord Mandelson went through before being given the Washington job.
“I intend to make sure all of the material is published,” Sir Keir Starmer said during PMQs.
However, he added there would be exemptions for national security and anything that will prejudice national relations.
He also said the Metropolitan Police had been in touch to raise issues about anything that would prejudice their investigations.
Starmer will try to bury Mandelson scandal at PMQs - and fail
10:10 , Maryam Zakir-HussainAnalysis by Kate Devlin, Whitehall Editor
The PM told his cabinet on Tuesday that Mandelson had let his “country down”.
Expect more of that language at PMQs today.
Sir Keir will have to try to bury the scandal that has engulfed his party and his government for days when he appears in the Commons later.
But no matter how strong his condemnation of Mandelson, as he admitted himself the government fears there are more revelations about the relationship with Epstein still to come.
Sir Keir has also been forced to agree to release papers about Mandelson's job as ambassador to Washington.
This story has much left to run.
