Keir Starmer has narrowly avoided a major backbench rebellion as 15 Labour MPs defied the whip to back a Conservative motion calling for a parliamentary inquiry into the appointment of Peter Mandelson as UK ambassador to the US. The government won the vote 335-223, a majority of 112, but up to 53 Labour MPs did not vote, raising concerns about the prime minister's dwindling political capital.
The motion, tabled by Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, sought to refer the matter to the privileges committee over claims Starmer misled the Commons. Downing Street deployed its full weight to block the bid, but rebel MP Emma Lewell criticised the move, saying it played into a 'terrible narrative' of a cover-up.
In damaging testimony, Starmer's former chief of staff Morgan McSweeney admitted Foreign Office officials faced intense pressure to expedite Mandelson's posting but denied any 'improper' shortcuts. He described learning about Mandelson's links to Jeffrey Epstein as like a 'knife through my soul'.
Further revelations emerged as the UK's new US ambassador, Christian Turner, was reported to have said in private that Starmer was 'on the ropes' and that the May elections could see his removal if Labour performs badly. Turner described Starmer as 'stubborn' but unlikely to quit voluntarily.
The scandal is expected to resurface next month when the Intelligence and Security Committee reviews key documents. Meanwhile, Labour MPs warned the prime minister has limited political capital and should tread carefully ahead of anticipated poor election results.
