"The prime minister was apparently not told of Mandelson's vetting failure, provoking incredulity across Westminster and accusations he sacked a senior civil servant to save his premiership."
"Starmer's pick for UK ambassador to Washington had been sacked from cabinet twice, had an ongoing relationship with convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and had business links with China."
"Had Starmer been aware that Mandelson had failed his vetting, allies say, he would have blocked the appointment, but now he faces a significant political challenge."
"The impression is that the prime minister, if he had asked a few questions, may have been able to find out about Mandelson's deep security vetting."
Keir Starmer is preparing for a critical confrontation with MPs regarding Peter Mandelson's vetting failure, which has raised questions about his political judgment. The prime minister's lack of awareness about Mandelson's vetting issues has led to accusations of incompetence. Mandelson's controversial background, including ties to a convicted sex offender and business connections with China, was known prior to his appointment. The situation has left MPs puzzled about the prime minister's failure to inquire about Mandelson's vetting status, raising concerns about his control over the government.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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