Starmer overruled warning of ‘reputational risk’ over Mandelson appointment, files show

Newly released documents also show Peter Mandelson was offered highly classified briefings before formal vetting was complete Keir Starmer overruled officials who warned of a “reputational risk” in making Peter Mandelson US ambassador, despite being handed a dossier of evidence about the peer’s relationship with the sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, documents reveal. The disclosure in newly released files will raise fresh questions about Starmer’s judgment – as well as about the vetting procedure...

By Jessica Elgot Deputy political editor