Keir Starmer could face further resignations when the next tranche of Peter Mandelson's WhatsApp messages is released, senior government sources have told the Guardian. The disclosures, expected in several weeks, will include informal communications alongside formal messages, and are likely to contain damaging details about ministerial discussions.
The prime minister has already apologised for his handling of Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador, which lasted only nine months before new details emerged about his ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Starmer said on Thursday: 'It was me that made a mistake, and it's me that makes the apology to the victims of Epstein, and I do that.'
The releases were forced by a Conservative parliamentary motion after Mandelson was sacked. The former Labour peer has since been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, accused of forwarding confidential information to Epstein while serving as business secretary under Gordon Brown. Mandelson denies wrongdoing.
All senior ministers, civil servants and special advisers have been asked to submit their phone messages for examination, including former deputy PM Angela Rayner, ex-chief of staff Morgan McSweeney, and former communications director Matthew Doyle. The initial files show McSweeney and Doyle discussed Mandelson's relationship with Epstein, with Doyle reportedly 'satisfied' with Mandelson's explanation.
Health secretary Wes Streeting has already released his own messages, which included criticism of the government's growth strategy and predictions he would lose his seat. The Metropolitan police are withholding queries sent to Mandelson about Epstein and his responses, as well as emails from FCDO permanent secretary Oliver Robbins.
Downing Street denies accusations that Starmer misled Parliament about the vetting process. Starmer reiterated he did not know the full extent of Mandelson's links to Epstein, adding: 'Unfortunately, because of the Metropolitan police investigation, we can't release that information yet.'
