Starmer’s judgement in the spotlight after handing Mandelson top job despite ‘dodgy’ background – Toriespublished at 07:43 GMT
07:43 GMT
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Tory chairman Kevin Hollinrake had been preparing to pressure the government into releasing documents relating to its vetting process for Lord Mandelson
The Tories had been gearing up for a parliamentary ambush by petitioning the release of information as to why Sir Keir Starmer sent Lord Mandelson to Washington last year in what is known as a humble address.
It now appears the government may publish those messages, emails and documents – apart from those deemed prejudicial to national security – rather than face a tricky vote, with the Conservative chairman accusing Starmer of “caving in” to the Tories’ humble address intention.
Ahead of a busy day in Westminster, Kevin Hollinrake tells BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “We will probably learn a lot about Sir Keir Starmer’s judgement, but we are yet to see what these documents will reveal.
“The reality is Keir Starmer knew he was appointing one of the dodgiest people in politics to the role of ambassador to the US – one of the best jobs in politics. He knew of his background and he knew of his relationship with Epstein and he still pushed ahead and appointed him.
“Let’s not forget, back in 2008 Mandelson was corresponding with a known paedophile at a time when millions of people were being put out of work in this country. Mandelson – what he was doing at that time – was seeking to do favours for his best pal and to enrich himself in the process.
“It is right the police are investigating, they must be allowed to do their work but I think everyone given the nature of the revelations think it must be the case a prosecution will ensue. This is not petty party politics, this is hugely serious.”
As a reminder, the BBC understands Mandelson’s position is that he has not acted in any way criminally and wasn’t motivated by financial gain