Keir Starmer has accused his political opponents of weaponising the Peter Mandelson scandal in an attempt to derail what he describes as a united government. The Prime Minister pushed back against reports of cabinet divisions as pressure mounts over the vetting controversy surrounding the former Labour peer.
Starmer Defends Government Unity
Speaking to broadcasters, Starmer questioned the motives of his critics, pointing to recent allegations that have proven false. He highlighted that opponents initially claimed a civil servant would have informed him about the outcome of a developed vetting security exercise, a claim he says has been proven wrong. He further denied accusations of dishonesty, stating: "They are now putting any allegation they can and I will tell you for why - they are opposed politically to what this Government is trying to achieve."
The Prime Minister cited government achievements such as employment rights laws, NHS investment, and tougher landlord regulations, arguing that these policies have triggered a barrage of allegations from political adversaries.
Cabinet Office Official Testifies
Earlier, Cabinet Office chief Cat Little told MPs she took the "very unusual judgment" of requesting Mandelson's vetting information directly from security officials after former Foreign Office chief Sir Olly Robbins refused to hand over a summary. Little stated she could not explain Robbins' refusal, saying: "I can only talk about my judgments and decisions."
Little revealed she had "multiple discussions" with Robbins in March 2026, during which she specifically asked to see the summary document and any decision-making audit trail. She said it was "made clear to me that that information would not be forthcoming." When asked who was not forthcoming, she replied: "Sir Olly."
Three-Week Delay Defended
Little defended the three-week delay in providing the vital information to Starmer on April 14, after she received a summary on March 25. She told MPs she believed she was duty-bound to seek legal advice due to the unusual nature of the highly classified information.
Minister Dismisses Split Claims
Home Office minister Alex Norris dismissed reports of cabinet splits as "a load of guff," adding: "We're getting on with the job, that's what we're doing and we're united." The scandal continues to overshadow government work, with the fallout from Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador still dominating headlines.
