Keir Starmer has dismissed allegations of a “cover-up” following the release by No10 of the initial evidence dossier regarding Peter Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador.
In response to claims that crucial information was omitted from the first batch of documents related to Lord Mandelson’s nomination, No10 addressed the issue today. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch raised concerns after it was revealed that the comment section designated for the Prime Minister’s feedback was left empty.
The Prime Minister’s official spokesperson stated, “I reject any notion of a cover-up. The government has fully cooperated, and I do not agree with such assertions. There are various ways in which the Prime Minister’s senior team provides input.”
Moreover, the spokesperson emphasized, “The Prime Minister did review the advice, but there are certainly lessons to be learned regarding the broader appointment procedures and the lead-up processes.” It was clarified that nothing was withheld from the document section in question.
Additionally, Keir Starmer acknowledged his mistake in appointing Lord Peter Mandelson as the US ambassador during his visit to Northern Ireland today. He expressed remorse to the victims of Epstein for the error.
The files released on Wednesday also disclosed that Lord Mandelson was offered a severance payment of £75,000 after initially requesting compensation for his entire four-year contract, amounting to £547,201 in taxpayer funds.
Downing Street and senior officials recommended that the Labour figure reimburse the sum or contribute it to a charitable cause.
