Downing Street acknowledged that all messages sent by Keir Starmer on WhatsApp are set to automatically delete, potentially leading to the loss of any conversations with Lord Mandelson. This revelation came as only a limited number of text messages between the former US ambassador and the Prime Minister were made public in the Mandelson files released to Parliament. Following demands from MPs, over 1,400 pages of documents were disclosed concerning Mandelson’s contentious appointment, shedding light on his close relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.
The extensive collection of private WhatsApps and emails unveiled Lord Mandelson’s significant influence within the Government, where he communicated with the cabinet, advocated for his personal interests, and criticized the Prime Minister. These Mandelson files represent the most substantial disclosure to Parliament since the Iraq War’s Chilcot Inquiry, incurring a cost of £1 million to taxpayers.
In defense of using disappearing messages, the Prime Minister’s official spokesperson emphasized that the function is permissible as long as it does not hinder record-keeping or transparency. The spokesperson stated that the Prime Minister and some ministers use the disappearing messages feature in compliance with the Government’s guidance on non-corporate communication channels.
Despite utilizing disappearing messages, Downing Street affirmed that the Prime Minister fully adhered to the regulations concerning the release of the Mandelson files. The spokesperson clarified that the PM had fulfilled the requirements of the humble address by providing the necessary information, despite the use of WhatsApp messages that automatically delete after a short period.
Government guidelines stipulate that important information and decisions must be accurately documented and preserved, raising concerns about the implications of automatically deleting messages. Within the released documents, there was only one page of exchanges between Labour leader Keir Starmer and Lord Mandelson, comprising nine iMessage text messages. However, certain messages, including those of cabinet minister Nick Thomas-Symonds, could not be accessed due to unforeseen circumstances.
Meanwhile, Andy Burnham has ruled out the possibility of calling an early general election if he assumes the role of Prime Minister. The Greater Manchester Mayor is contesting the Makerfield by-election as a Labour candidate, positioning himself to challenge Keir Starmer.
Addressing speculations about a potential snap election for a stronger mandate, a spokesperson for Burnham has definitively ruled out the prospect of calling a snap election upon entering Downing Street.
