Minister Urges Mandelson to Return Controversial Severance Payout
Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden has publicly called on former Labour grandee Peter Mandelson to return a substantial severance payment, widely described as a 'golden goodbye', or alternatively donate the funds to charity. The demand comes as political fury escalates over revelations that Mandelson received a five-figure taxpayer-funded payout following his dismissal from a government role.
McFadden Proposes Charity Donation Focused on Women's Safety
During an interview with Sky News, McFadden, who has known Mandelson for three decades, explicitly stated that the payment should be returned. He suggested that if Mandelson chooses not to refund the money directly, it should be given to a charitable organisation specialising in combating violence against women and girls. McFadden emphasised his personal dismay and confusion over the latest disclosures concerning Mandelson's conduct and the subsequent financial settlement.
Background to Mandelson's Dismissal and Payout
Peter Mandelson was terminated from his position in September after the extent of his association with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein became publicly known. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed severe criticism, accusing Mandelson of repeatedly lying prior to his appointment as an ambassador. McFadden clarified that Starmer had no involvement with Epstein, noting these events occurred before Starmer entered Parliament or assumed leadership roles.
Currently, Mandelson is under police investigation for alleged misconduct in public office, adding further scrutiny to the situation. McFadden defended the Prime Minister's actions, stating that Starmer has acted in good faith and is horrified by the revelations.
Conservative Criticism and Broader Political Fallout
The controversy has drawn sharp condemnation from opposition figures, including Tory Shadow Foreign Secretary Dame Priti Patel. Patel labelled the five-figure payout a 'disgusting betrayal' of Epstein's victims and questioned the judgment of Prime Minister Starmer and his Chief of Staff, Morgan McSweeney. She demanded full recovery of the 'golden goodbye' from public funds.
This incident highlights ongoing tensions within UK political circles regarding accountability and the use of taxpayer money in severance agreements. The call for Mandelson to relinquish the payment underscores growing demands for transparency and ethical standards in government dealings.
