The Peter Mandelson appointment continues to bring shame on the Labour Party, broadcaster and peer Ayesha Hazarika has said. Writing for British Brief, she described the fiasco as a disaster that should have been handled behind closed doors, not in the full glare of public scrutiny.
Scandal and Misjudgement
Hazarika argued that the primary victims of this scandal are the victims of Jeffrey Epstein, the notorious paedophile. She stressed that we must never forgive or forget a culture that allowed rich, powerful men to act with impunity due to their wealth and entitlement.
She expressed regret that Lord Mandelson was ever hired and that Sir Olly Robbins, the top official at the Foreign Office, was fired. The row between Robbins and the Prime Minister, she said, was deeply damaging, as it highlighted a strained relationship between ministers and civil servants.
Minister-Civil Servant Relations
Hazarika emphasised that the relationship between ministers and civil servants is fundamental to effective governance. Ministers need a solid partnership with the civil service to deliver on their vision. She criticised figures like Dominic Cummings and Liz Truss for undermining the civil service, calling it dangerous for democratic governance.
Civil servants work hard to deliver for ministers while reminding them of legal and procedural guardrails. Savvy ministers understand this and protect their teams. However, trust must go both ways, and ministers should not fear leaks of private discussions.
Local Issues Matter
Turning to the upcoming May elections, Hazarika noted that while national stories dominate, local issues are crucial. On doorsteps in South London, she encountered widespread concern about anti-social behaviour, including shoplifting, drug abuse, and littering. People want visible policing and support for the homeless and vulnerable. They want to feel proud of where they live, not frightened. National politicians would be wise to listen.
King's Visit to Trump
Hazarika expressed sympathy for the King as he prepares to visit the United States, hoping the trip will encourage President Trump to be more favourable to the UK. Given Trump's threats of tariffs and talk of the Falklands, she suggested the best outcome would be persuading him to take early retirement.
Assisted Dying Bill Defeat
Finally, Hazarika lamented the defeat of the Assisted Dying Bill in the House of Lords, calling it a shame given widespread public support. She argued that if we want more choice over birth, we should allow people nearing death greater say over how they depart this world.
