#westminster-inquiry
#westminster-inquiry

19 hours ago

What you need to know as Sutton heads into local elections

The Liberal Democrats are likely to retain control in Sutton despite losing some seats to Reform UK.

EU data protection

Security vetting stepped up after MP is given bodyguard with far-right links

Mitie has tightened vetting processes for bodyguards after a far-right linked operative was assigned to protect a threatened politician.

#reproductive-rights

UK news

Starmer increasingly concerned' about countries using proxies for crimes in UK

Starmer faces Commons vote on inquiry into Mandelson vetting scandal next week

The Independent provides critical journalism on key issues without paywalls, relying on donations to support its reporting efforts.

Starmer insists vast majority' of Labour MPs support him despite Mandelson scandal

The Independent provides critical journalism on key issues without paywalls, relying on donations to support its reporting efforts.

Watch live: Top civil servant to face MPs over Mandelson vetting row

The Independent provides critical journalism on key issues without paywalls, emphasizing the importance of accessible reporting.

Peter Mandelson investigated by European anti-fraud office

The Independent provides critical journalism on various issues, emphasizing the importance of accessible reporting without paywalls.

Judgement day for Starmer over Mandelson vetting scandal

The Independent provides critical journalism on key issues without paywalls, relying on donations to support its reporting efforts.

UK news

Starmer increasingly concerned' about countries using proxies for crimes in UK

The Independent provides critical journalism on various issues, emphasizing the importance of accessible reporting without paywalls.

Starmer faces Commons vote on inquiry into Mandelson vetting scandal next week

The Independent provides critical journalism on key issues without paywalls, relying on donations to support its reporting efforts.

Starmer insists vast majority' of Labour MPs support him despite Mandelson scandal

The Independent provides critical journalism on key issues without paywalls, relying on donations to support its reporting efforts.

Watch live: Top civil servant to face MPs over Mandelson vetting row

The Independent provides critical journalism on key issues without paywalls, emphasizing the importance of accessible reporting.

Peter Mandelson investigated by European anti-fraud office

The Independent provides critical journalism on various issues, emphasizing the importance of accessible reporting without paywalls.

Judgement day for Starmer over Mandelson vetting scandal

The Independent provides critical journalism on key issues without paywalls, relying on donations to support its reporting efforts.

more#reproductive-rights

#elections

Electoral commission calls on Government to make changes to improve voting process

The electoral commission urges the Government to enhance election administration and ensure staff can freely observe the voting process.

Electoral commission calls on Government to make changes to improve voting process

The electoral commission urges the Government to enhance election administration and ensure staff can freely observe the voting process.

Voters contend with grotesque' leaflets and dodgy' data in English elections

Election leaflets are misleading voters with unreliable data and claims about tactical voting in the May elections.

Electoral commission calls on Government to make changes to improve voting process

The electoral commission urges the Government to enhance election administration and ensure staff can freely observe the voting process.

Electoral commission calls on Government to make changes to improve voting process

The electoral commission urges the Government to enhance election administration and ensure staff can freely observe the voting process.

Voters contend with grotesque' leaflets and dodgy' data in English elections

Election leaflets are misleading voters with unreliable data and claims about tactical voting in the May elections.

Key figure in Mandelson vetting row will not appear to give evidence

Ian Collard will provide written evidence instead of appearing before the Foreign Affairs Committee regarding Lord Mandelson's vetting process.

No.10 speaks out following Sir Olly Robinson giving evidence to MPs

Sir Olly Robbins criticized the vetting process for Lord Mandelson's appointment, citing significant reputational risks that were overlooked.

Officials deliberately withheld Mandelson vetting result from me, Starmer says

Sir Keir Starmer accused the Foreign Office of withholding information about Lord Mandelson's failed security vetting for the US ambassador role.

Key figure in Mandelson vetting row will not appear to give evidence

Ian Collard will provide written evidence instead of appearing before the Foreign Affairs Committee regarding Lord Mandelson's vetting process.

No.10 speaks out following Sir Olly Robinson giving evidence to MPs

Sir Olly Robbins criticized the vetting process for Lord Mandelson's appointment, citing significant reputational risks that were overlooked.

Officials deliberately withheld Mandelson vetting result from me, Starmer says

Sir Keir Starmer accused the Foreign Office of withholding information about Lord Mandelson's failed security vetting for the US ambassador role.

more#lord-mandelson

#peter-mandelson

UK politics

Key figure in Mandelson vetting scandal will not give evidence before MPs

UK politics

McSweeney denies bullying civil servants into appointing Mandelson

UK politics

US justice department blocking Met police investigation into Mandelson, reports say UK politics live

The Guardian view on blaming the civil service: the predictable refuge of failing governments | Editorial

Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador marks a significant moment in Sir Keir Starmer's leadership amid frustrations with government bureaucracy.

Cat Little's evidence to MPs is destined for civil service textbooks | John Crace

Peter Mandelson's role as US ambassador is seen as a failure due to his connections and the nature of Trump's personality.

Olly Robbins refused to give Mandelson vetting summary to Cabinet Office, says Cat Little

Olly Robbins withheld Peter Mandelson's vetting summary from the Cabinet Office, despite internal debates about its release.

Key figure in Mandelson vetting scandal will not give evidence before MPs

Ian Collard will provide written answers instead of appearing before the parliamentary committee regarding Peter Mandelson's security vetting controversy.

McSweeney denies bullying civil servants into appointing Mandelson

Morgan McSweeney denied bullying claims regarding Peter Mandelson's appointment as UK ambassador, asserting he took responsibility for the decision.

US justice department blocking Met police investigation into Mandelson, reports say UK politics live

The UK investigation into Peter Mandelson is stalled due to the US refusal to provide Epstein-related evidence.

The Guardian view on blaming the civil service: the predictable refuge of failing governments | Editorial

Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador marks a significant moment in Sir Keir Starmer's leadership amid frustrations with government bureaucracy.

Cat Little's evidence to MPs is destined for civil service textbooks | John Crace

Peter Mandelson's role as US ambassador is seen as a failure due to his connections and the nature of Trump's personality.

Olly Robbins refused to give Mandelson vetting summary to Cabinet Office, says Cat Little

Olly Robbins withheld Peter Mandelson's vetting summary from the Cabinet Office, despite internal debates about its release.

more#peter-mandelson

#journalism

Sunak: Starmer must take responsibility for Mandelson vetting scandal

The Independent emphasizes the importance of accessible journalism and the need for on-the-ground reporting during critical moments in US history.

Olly Robbins only faced everyday pressure' to clear Mandelson, Starmer says

The Independent provides accessible journalism on critical issues without paywalls, relying on donations to support its reporting efforts.

Will Starmer survive? John Rentoul answers readers' key questions

The Independent provides critical journalism on key issues without paywalls, emphasizing the importance of accessible reporting.

I've covered Labour for decades ask me anything on Starmer's latest crisis

The Independent provides critical journalism on key issues without paywalls, relying on donations to support its reporting efforts.

Watch live: Starmer faces more backlash from MPs over Mandelson vetting row at PMQs

The Independent provides critical journalism on key issues without paywalls, relying on donations to support its reporting efforts.

I knew that Mandelson failed security vetting. So why didn't Keir Starmer?

The Independent provides critical journalism on key issues without paywalls, emphasizing the importance of accessible reporting.

Sunak: Starmer must take responsibility for Mandelson vetting scandal

The Independent emphasizes the importance of accessible journalism and the need for on-the-ground reporting during critical moments in US history.

Olly Robbins only faced everyday pressure' to clear Mandelson, Starmer says

The Independent provides accessible journalism on critical issues without paywalls, relying on donations to support its reporting efforts.

Will Starmer survive? John Rentoul answers readers' key questions

The Independent provides critical journalism on key issues without paywalls, emphasizing the importance of accessible reporting.

I've covered Labour for decades ask me anything on Starmer's latest crisis

The Independent provides critical journalism on key issues without paywalls, relying on donations to support its reporting efforts.

Watch live: Starmer faces more backlash from MPs over Mandelson vetting row at PMQs

The Independent provides critical journalism on key issues without paywalls, relying on donations to support its reporting efforts.

I knew that Mandelson failed security vetting. So why didn't Keir Starmer?

The Independent provides critical journalism on key issues without paywalls, emphasizing the importance of accessible reporting.

more#journalism

#keir-starmer

UK politics

Lonely at the top: who are Keir Starmer's allies as daunting May elections loom?

8 hours ago

The Guardian view on Starmer's Mandelson gamble: his political judgment faces scrutiny in pivotal week | Editorial

Sir Keir Starmer's appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador faces scrutiny, with potential risks for Downing Street depending on witness testimonies.

Partygate v Mandelson: Keir Starmer faces attack from his own playbook

Keir Starmer faces accusations of misleading parliament similar to those that led to Boris Johnson's downfall during the Partygate scandal.

UK politics

Keir Starmer vows to lead Labour into next general election after bruising week

Starmer-Mandelson latest: PM's ex-top aide summoned to face MPs over vetting scandal

Downing Street declined to comment on whether Sir Keir Starmer apologized to David Lammy regarding ambassadorial appointment discussions.

Starmer-Mandelson latest: PM braces for top civil servant to face MPs

Cabinet ministers are reportedly turning against Sir Keir Starmer amid the Lord Mandelson scandal, indicating potential leadership challenges ahead.

Lonely at the top: who are Keir Starmer's allies as daunting May elections loom?

Keir Starmer needs genuine allies as he faces challenges leading Labour into the next election.

8 hours ago

The Guardian view on Starmer's Mandelson gamble: his political judgment faces scrutiny in pivotal week | Editorial

Sir Keir Starmer's appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador faces scrutiny, with potential risks for Downing Street depending on witness testimonies.

Partygate v Mandelson: Keir Starmer faces attack from his own playbook

Keir Starmer faces accusations of misleading parliament similar to those that led to Boris Johnson's downfall during the Partygate scandal.

Keir Starmer vows to lead Labour into next general election after bruising week

Keir Starmer confirmed he will lead Labour into the next general election amid controversy over Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador.

Starmer-Mandelson latest: PM's ex-top aide summoned to face MPs over vetting scandal

Downing Street declined to comment on whether Sir Keir Starmer apologized to David Lammy regarding ambassadorial appointment discussions.

Starmer-Mandelson latest: PM braces for top civil servant to face MPs

Cabinet ministers are reportedly turning against Sir Keir Starmer amid the Lord Mandelson scandal, indicating potential leadership challenges ahead.

more#keir-starmer

4 hours ago

UK government move to delay social media ban faces pushback in Lords

Government's amendment could delay children's access to social media regulations for three years, prompting backlash from campaigners and Lords members.

#labour-party

23 hours ago

UK politics

Starmer insists 'majority' of Labour MPs back his leadership

Greens grow, Reform roars whilst Labour wonders what just happened - London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com

Labour faces potential historic losses in London local elections, with Greens and Reform UK projected to gain significant ground.

As the PM's fate lay in doubt, Labour MPs plotted the party's future direction

Labour MPs are advocating for bold government action to address everyday hardships amid economic challenges and criticizing current leadership's fiscal policies.

UK politics

London Labour activists charged amid alleged vote rigging claims

23 hours ago

Starmer insists 'majority' of Labour MPs back his leadership

Sir Keir Starmer asserts strong support from Labour MPs despite leadership challenge speculation and defends his decisions regarding security vetting concerns.

Greens grow, Reform roars whilst Labour wonders what just happened - London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com

Labour faces potential historic losses in London local elections, with Greens and Reform UK projected to gain significant ground.

As the PM's fate lay in doubt, Labour MPs plotted the party's future direction

Labour MPs are advocating for bold government action to address everyday hardships amid economic challenges and criticizing current leadership's fiscal policies.

London Labour activists charged amid alleged vote rigging claims

Four Labour activists face charges for allegedly manipulating a party database during candidate selection.

PM's ex-chief of staff says he doesn't recognise claims about his behaviour

Morgan McSweeney disputes media portrayals of his behavior during his tenure as chief of staff to Sir Keir Starmer.

Morgan McSweeney, Keir Starmer's former chief of staff, to be questioned by MPs

Morgan McSweeney will testify before MPs regarding pressure from Downing Street over Peter Mandelson's appointment as ambassador to Washington.

PM's ex-chief of staff says he doesn't recognise claims about his behaviour

Morgan McSweeney disputes media portrayals of his behavior during his tenure as chief of staff to Sir Keir Starmer.

Morgan McSweeney, Keir Starmer's former chief of staff, to be questioned by MPs

Morgan McSweeney will testify before MPs regarding pressure from Downing Street over Peter Mandelson's appointment as ambassador to Washington.

more#morgan-mcsweeney

#politics

I witnessed the dying days of Boris Johnson's premiership. Keir Starmer's position is uncannily similar | Simon Hart

The current political climate mirrors the summer of 2022, highlighting accountability and leadership differences between Boris Johnson and Keir Starmer.

No, Minister: the week Keir Starmer had his own Sir Humphrey moment

Keir Starmer faced a significant political challenge reminiscent of the satirical dynamics in Yes, Minister.

It is obvious now, Keir Starmer, that you made a mistake. Reinstate Olly Robbins for the good of the UK | Simon McDonald

Admitting mistakes is challenging, especially for leaders, as seen in the case of Keir Starmer and Peter Mandelson's security vetting.

I witnessed the dying days of Boris Johnson's premiership. Keir Starmer's position is uncannily similar | Simon Hart

The current political climate mirrors the summer of 2022, highlighting accountability and leadership differences between Boris Johnson and Keir Starmer.

No, Minister: the week Keir Starmer had his own Sir Humphrey moment

Keir Starmer faced a significant political challenge reminiscent of the satirical dynamics in Yes, Minister.

It is obvious now, Keir Starmer, that you made a mistake. Reinstate Olly Robbins for the good of the UK | Simon McDonald

Admitting mistakes is challenging, especially for leaders, as seen in the case of Keir Starmer and Peter Mandelson's security vetting.

Hillsborough Law to progress in next parliamentary session

Progress on the Hillsborough Law continues as ministers agree to carry the bill over to the next parliamentary session.

PM's ex-chief of staff to give evidence on Mandelson vetting

Morgan McSweeney will testify about his role in Lord Mandelson's security vetting amid accusations of pressure on civil servants.

Key questions facing government over Mandelson vetting

Lord Mandelson failed security vetting for ambassador role, raising questions about the Prime Minister's knowledge and the Foreign Office's decision-making.

PM's ex-chief of staff to give evidence on Mandelson vetting

Morgan McSweeney will testify about his role in Lord Mandelson's security vetting amid accusations of pressure on civil servants.

Key questions facing government over Mandelson vetting

Lord Mandelson failed security vetting for ambassador role, raising questions about the Prime Minister's knowledge and the Foreign Office's decision-making.

more#security-vetting

Key takeaways from senior official on Mandelson vetting

Lord Mandelson was granted security clearance despite concerns, leading to his eventual dismissal after new information about his ties to Jeffrey Epstein.

Mandelson under formal investigation by EU's anti-fraud office

The EU's anti-fraud office is investigating Lord Peter Mandelson over allegations of misconduct related to Jeffrey Epstein during his tenure as trade commissioner.

Top Cabinet Office official to give evidence to MPs about Peter Mandelson's vetting UK politics live

The UK government is signing a new deal with France to curb Channel crossings, while facing internal cabinet divisions over recent decisions.

2 months ago

UK falls to new low on corruption scale over party donations and Epstein scandals

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

UK news

The Big Debate: Waiting lists apology, cost of living and more powers

Eluned Morgan apologized to patients in Wales for lengthy NHS treatment waits during a live TV debate.

Labour and Lib Dem MPs demand shameful' Palantir NHS contract be scrapped

MPs demand the government terminate its NHS contract with Palantir due to concerns over trust and the company's political affiliations.

The Big Debate: Waiting lists apology, cost of living and more powers

Eluned Morgan apologized to patients in Wales for lengthy NHS treatment waits during a live TV debate.

Labour and Lib Dem MPs demand shameful' Palantir NHS contract be scrapped

MPs demand the government terminate its NHS contract with Palantir due to concerns over trust and the company's political affiliations.

more#nhs

Toxic' views of Reform UK candidates raise questions about party's vetting

Reform UK candidates have made controversial statements, raising concerns about the party's vetting process ahead of the May elections.

Former top civil servant 'in the dark' over reasons for his sacking - London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com

"I don't fully understand the reasons that I'm in the position I am in, but that is for a separate process for me to try to get to the bottom of."

UK politics

fromTheregister

Gov.uk says AI gaslighting Brits with stale Gov.uk data

"The problem isn't that the government is trying to trip people up (it isn't), but that inconsistent information surfaced by the AI overview feels that way to users. That perception alone can undermine confidence in government services."

UK politics

Starmer admits No 10 asked about job for aide Matthew Doyle

Conversations occurred regarding a diplomatic role for Matthew Doyle, but nothing materialized amid controversy over his past associations.

#kemi-badenoch

Badenoch tells Starmer to 'take responsibility and go' over Mandelson row - London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com

Kemi Badenoch demands Sir Keir Starmer's resignation over alleged failures in the appointment of Lord Mandelson as UK ambassador to the US.

Badenoch warns Labour MPs Starmer 'is not fit for office'

Kemi Badenoch demands Labour MPs remove Sir Keir Starmer, criticizing his leadership and accountability during a Commons debate on Lord Mandelson's appointment.

Badenoch tells Starmer to 'take responsibility and go' over Mandelson row - London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com

Kemi Badenoch demands Sir Keir Starmer's resignation over alleged failures in the appointment of Lord Mandelson as UK ambassador to the US.

Badenoch warns Labour MPs Starmer 'is not fit for office'

Kemi Badenoch demands Labour MPs remove Sir Keir Starmer, criticizing his leadership and accountability during a Commons debate on Lord Mandelson's appointment.

more#kemi-badenoch

Badenoch fumes Starmer 'has misled the House' as Sir Olly gives evidence to MPs - London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com

Claims suggest improper vetting procedures in Lord Mandelson's appointment as UK ambassador to the US, raising concerns of political interference.

Sacked Foreign Office chief Olly Robbins to face MPs' questions over Mandelson vetting UK politics live

Donald Trump is trolling Keir Starmer regarding the appointment of Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the US.

Key points from sacked official at heart of Mandelson vetting row

Sir Olly Robbins testified about the vetting process for Lord Mandelson's ambassador role, highlighting pressure from Downing Street and security clearance issues.

Mandelson vetting row deepens as Cooper admits concern over omissions

Yvette Cooper expressed concern over the lack of communication regarding vetting issues related to Lord Peter Mandelson's ambassadorial appointment.

Starmer sends 'chill' through civil service, union boss says

Sir Keir Starmer's dismissal of a lead civil servant has created tension within the civil service and raised concerns about political expediency in job security.

Self-serving stuff': anger remains high in Whitehall over Olly Robbins sacking

Keir Starmer's dismissal of Olly Robbins has sparked outrage within Whitehall, highlighting tensions between the civil service and political leadership.

Farage 'does not accept' Starmer's version of events following Sir Olly's evidence

Nigel Farage questions Sir Keir Starmer's account of Lord Mandelson's appointment, citing serious concerns raised by former civil servant Sir Olly Robbins.

Lee Anderson ejected from Commons after saying Starmer 'couldn't lie straight in bed' - London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com

Lee Anderson was expelled from the House of Commons for refusing to retract accusations of lying against Sir Keir Starmer.

Questions asked and answers given up to a point. Welcome to lo-fi PMQs | John Crace

Keir Starmer showed improvement in responding to Kemi Badenoch's questions during recent Prime Minister's Questions, despite some unresolved issues on defense spending.

1 month ago

It's too late don't delete anything': Inside a government inquiry

The Independent provides free, accessible journalism across major issues including reproductive rights, climate change, and tech accountability, funded by reader donations rather than paywalls.

1 month ago

Badenoch fumes Starmer 'lied to the Commons' - London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com

Kemi Badenoch accuses Keir Starmer of lying about Peter Mandelson's connections to Jeffrey Epstein and calls for his resignation due to lack of judgment.

1 month ago

The Guardian view on secrecy in parliament: hiding the names of MPs' staff would undermine democracy | Editorial

The House of Commons standards committee's recommendation to remove MPs' staff names from the register represents a harmful retreat from transparency and public accountability during a period of fragile institutional trust.

2 months ago

Trial hears ex-MP is person of 'highest integrity'

Shahid Malik, a former MP, denies fraud, money laundering and public nuisance charges linked to RT Diagnostics and will not give evidence at his trial.