The Parliament’s intelligence watchdog has accused the Government of unlawfully withholding Peter Mandelson’s vetting file. The Intelligence and Security Committee, currently examining numerous documents related to Mandelson’s role as Ambassador to the US, criticized the withholding of the file as a clear example of crucial evidence not being disclosed.
Expressing deep concern, the committee, led by Labour peer Lord Beamish, highlighted the extensive use of WhatsApp for official Government communication, labeling it as “extraordinary.” It pointed out a disturbing lack of proper record-keeping during its investigation into the documents.
Furthermore, the committee raised issues regarding the security of Westminster’s IT systems, citing a lack of adherence to established procedures as “appalling.” It emphasized the importance of official government systems for conducting government affairs and expressed disappointment over the prevalent use of unofficial channels for policy formulation.
Despite the Government’s agreement to provide documents related to Mandelson’s appointment, with the exception of those impacting national security, the committee revealed that certain documents, including the vetting file held by UK Security Vetting, were being withheld. The committee criticized the broad redaction of documents by the Government and highlighted a previous Commons motion mandating the release of all relevant documents.
The committee also shed light on the allegations against Mandelson, including passing sensitive government information to Jeffrey Epstein. It revealed that UK Security Vetting had recommended against granting Mandelson clearance, a decision overruled by the Foreign Office without the Prime Minister’s knowledge.
Emphasizing the Government’s obligation to Parliament, the committee asserted that the Government lacked the authority to withhold files without parliamentary consent. Opposition leader Sir Ed Davey condemned the Government’s refusal to release Mandelson’s vetting file, urging the Prime Minister to intervene for transparency.
In response, a spokesperson from the Cabinet Office reiterated the Government’s commitment to transparency and national security protection. They assured that redactions would only be made when necessary and transparently, with a focus on promptly publishing relevant material.
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