Labour MPs are turning on Starmer over Mandelson

Labour MPs are turning on Starmer over Mandelson

Author: The New Statesman February 5, 2026 Duration: 18:30

Keir Starmer has been grilled in the Commons on his decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as US ambassador, despite knowing his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein continued after the financier’s conviction in 2008.


Starmer pledged to release the vetting documents relating to Mandelson’s appointment, but argued that some details would need to be redacted on national security grounds.


This angered backbench MPs who, along with former deputy leader Angela Rayner, forced the PM into another humiliating climb down. 


Will anger in the party force Keir Starmer out?


Anoosh Chakelian is joined by political correspondent Megan Kenyon.


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Each weekday, Daily Politics from the New Statesman cuts through the noise of the 24-hour news cycle to offer something more substantial. Hosted by Anoosh Chakelian and Oli Dugmore, along with the wider New Statesman team, this isn't just a recap of headlines. Instead, it provides sharp reporting and clear analysis from the heart of Westminster, paired with thoughtful conversations that look beyond the capital to the cultural and societal forces shaping the political landscape. You'll hear from the magazine's own journalists and a range of expert guests who help explain not just what is happening, but why it matters. The perspective is inherently progressive, rooted in the New Statesman's long tradition as a leading voice in British political commentary. Tuning into this podcast means getting a deeper, more considered understanding of the day's events, delivered with clarity and insight. It’s designed for anyone who feels that politics is too important to be left to soundbites, offering a reliable and engaging daily digest that makes complex issues accessible without oversimplifying them.
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