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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
World
Jonathan McCambridge

Mandelson was advised not to refer to Ireland as ‘The Free State’

Ireland Peter Mandelson Northern Ireland North

New Northern Ireland Secretary Peter Mandelson was advised to avoid referring to the Republic of Ireland as “The Free State” or “The Republican Government” when he took up the role in October 1999, newly declassified files have revealed.

Mr Mandelson had recently replaced Mo Mowlam as Secretary of State for the region when a first day briefing paper was provided for him by the Northern Ireland Office.

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