Downing Street has confirmed that Prime Minister Keir Starmer uses disappearing messages on WhatsApp, raising questions about the completeness of documents released regarding Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador. The prime minister's spokesperson stated that the function aligns with official guidance on non-corporate communications.
On Monday, the government published nearly 1,500 pages of emails and messages about Mandelson's role, responding to a Conservative motion demanding transparency. The files contained few direct messages from Starmer, though officials noted most prime ministerial correspondence occurs through private offices.
The only WhatsApp exchanges between Starmer and Mandelson were a handful around the 2024 general election. When asked if others were lost due to disappearing messages, the spokesperson said Starmer had provided all required information and fully complied with the parliamentary request.
Cabinet Office guidance permits disappearing messages to limit device clutter but stresses that users must not compromise record-keeping or transparency. Relevant messages on policy or decisions must be preserved via screenshots or other means.
Conservative shadow minister Alex Burghart criticised the practice, stating: 'Government guidance is clear: significant information must be recorded. But Starmer's messages to Mandelson have been disappeared or destroyed.' He added that the released documents reveal a 'shoddy' government.
In contrast, files showed extensive messages between Mandelson and Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden, some critical of the government. Asked if Starmer still had confidence in McFadden, the spokesperson replied: 'Yes.'
