Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has defended his use of the disappearing messages function on WhatsApp, following the release of the Mandelson files to Parliament. Downing Street confirmed on Tuesday that Sir Keir utilises this feature, meaning his communications with Lord Peter Mandelson on the platform would not be preserved.
Limited Disclosure in Mandelson Files
Only a small number of text messages between the former ambassador to Washington DC and the Prime Minister were disclosed in the files, which were released on Monday. This limited disclosure has raised questions about the completeness of the records provided.
Speaking to broadcasters, Sir Keir insisted he had fully complied with the humble address requesting his messages. He stated: “Let me assure you I have complied with the humble address. All the messages I hold have been passed over. I went through the same process as everybody else. And many people, not just in politics, use disappearing messages.”
Embarrassing Revelations
Some of the WhatsApp messages that were included in the files proved embarrassing for the Prime Minister. Lord Mandelson was quoted describing Sir Keir as “consistently going for direction B”, a remark that has drawn attention in political circles.
The use of disappearing messages has sparked debate about transparency and accountability in government communications. Critics argue that such practices could hinder scrutiny, while supporters note that private messaging apps are widely used across sectors.
