Keir Starmer’s close associates in the Cabinet have come forward to support him as he confronts a critical moment in the Commons regarding the Peter Mandelson vetting controversy.
The Prime Minister is under scrutiny from Members of Parliament on Monday following revelations that the former UK ambassador to Washington did not pass UK Security vetting.
Recently, Mr. Starmer dismissed the Foreign Office head, Sir Olly Robbins, expressing anger that the department had not informed No10 about Lord Mandelson’s failed vetting before granting him clearance.
Liz Kendall, speaking to Sky News, criticized the Foreign Office for neglecting to inform Mr. Starmer or the then-Foreign Secretary David Lammy about Lord Mandelson’s vetting failure, calling it a “serious mistake.”
She emphasized that the PM would have revoked Lord Mandelson’s appointment, which was made public prior to completing UK Security vetting.
When asked if she still supported Mr. Starmer to lead the party into the next election, Ms. Kendall responded with full confidence, praising his courage and leadership qualities.
Referring to the decision not to participate in the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, Ms. Kendall commended the Prime Minister for making the right choices on crucial national matters.
The Tech Secretary criticized the failure to disclose Lord Mandelson’s vetting status, stating that he would not have been appointed if the information had been known at the time.
Deputy PM David Lammy also defended Mr. Starmer, expressing bewilderment that Downing Street had not been informed about Lord Mandelson’s vetting failure. He affirmed that the PM, had he known about the issue, would have never appointed Lord Mandelson as ambassador.
As the dismissed Foreign Office chief, Sir Olly Robbins, prepares to testify before the Foreign Affairs Committee to present his side of the story, former Foreign Office permanent secretary Lord Simon McDonald accused Sir Olly of being unfairly dismissed by the Prime Minister.
In an interview with the BBC, Lord McDonald criticized the rapid dismissal of Sir Olly, stating that it lacked due process and fairness, indicating that Number 10 sought a quick resolution without allowing Sir Olly a chance to present his case.
