The Guardian has learned that government documents on Peter Mandelson's appointment as Washington ambassador contain no record of measures taken to address serious security concerns. Multiple sources briefed on the files, due for publication on Monday, say there is no detail about steps to mitigate flags raised over his associations with senior figures in foreign states.
It is understood Mandelson was not asked to take any steps himself to allay such concerns. The omissions cast doubt on assurances provided by senior Whitehall officials to MPs on the foreign affairs select committee. One source said: 'The big question I would be asking is why there is no written record of what mitigations were put in place.'
The document release forms part of the government's response to a 'humble address' passed by parliament, forcing publication of highly confidential papers. It sets up a difficult week for Prime Minister Keir Starmer, following Tony Blair's critical essay last week and amid calls from Labour MPs for Starmer's resignation.
Ministers expect embarrassing WhatsApp exchanges with Mandelson, including criticism of Starmer, to be published. Sources suggest group messages involving former health secretary Wes Streeting and unsolicited policy advice from Mandelson may also be included. A government spokesperson said the release would be among the largest ever laid in parliament, reflecting a transparent process.
Starmer sacked Mandelson after documents revealed his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein. The controversy has already led to the departure of Starmer's chief of staff and the top Foreign Office official. The papers will detail security assessments and Mandelson's contacts with ministers, though a nine-page UK Security Vetting summary is withheld at Scotland Yard's request.
