PM in ‘precarious position’ after MPs force climbdown over Mandelson files release

Thursday 5 February 2026 | UK

Sir Keir Starmer is facing mounting pressure after being forced to agree to the release of sensitive documents relating to his decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to the United States, following a revolt by Labour MPs in the House of Commons.

The prime minister had initially planned for the cabinet secretary to decide which files could remain secret on national security or diplomatic grounds. However, after fierce interventions from senior Labour figures during a dramatic Commons session on Wednesday, the government was forced into a compromise.

Under the agreement, Parliament’s Intelligence and Security Committee will now determine how the most sensitive documents should be handled. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch accused Sir Keir of attempting a “cover-up”, while former deputy prime minister Angela Rayner was among Labour MPs who pressed the government to change course.

The controversy stems from revelations about Lord Mandelson’s past relationship with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. The Metropolitan Police has since opened an investigation into Lord Mandelson for alleged misconduct in public office, warning that releasing certain documents at this stage could undermine the inquiry.

The police said they had advised the government against publishing specific files while investigations are ongoing, adding to uncertainty over when Parliament will see the documents.

Sky News political editor Beth Rigby described the atmosphere in Westminster as a “tinderbox”, with tensions running high and some senior allies of the prime minister unwilling to rule out resignations.

Downing Street has acknowledged that Sir Keir was aware of Lord Mandelson’s links to Epstein at the time of his appointment but insists he was misled about the extent of the relationship. Speaking during Prime Minister’s Questions, Sir Keir said new information revealed last year showed the relationship was “materially different” from what he had been told.

“He lied about that to everyone for years,” Sir Keir told MPs. “When the new information came to light, I sacked him. I regret appointing him. If I knew then what I know now, he would never have been anywhere near government.”

The scandal reignited last week after the US Department of Justice released millions of documents linked to Epstein, including emails that appear to show Lord Mandelson shared sensitive government information with Epstein while serving in Gordon Brown’s administration. Referrals from both the Cabinet Office and Mr Brown prompted the police investigation.

Lord Mandelson resigned his Labour Party membership on Sunday, saying he did not wish to cause further embarrassment. While denying wrongdoing, he has previously apologised for maintaining ties with Epstein after his conviction, describing the relationship as a serious error of judgement.

Sir Keir is expected to face further questions on the crisis later today as he outlines government plans for investment in deprived communities.