Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall echoed Foreign Secretary David Lammy’s assertion that Prime Minister Keir Starmer would have blocked Peter Mandelson’s appointment had he been aware of the failed security clearance. During an interview on Sky News with Trevor Phillips, Kendall described Starmer as a person of strong principles. She firmly denied any suggestion that he would prioritize avoiding embarrassment over national security. Kendall stated that Starmer would have viewed such an action as incorrect and would not have proceeded. She also criticized former official Olly Robbins for not informing Starmer or the foreign secretary about the security concerns, calling it an initial error that persisted. Kendall noted this oversight led to inaccurate statements in parliament by the prime minister and ministers, resulting in Robbins losing their trust. Starmer encounters another challenging day as scrutiny of his leadership intensifies due to the Mandelson issue. However, his cabinet is showing support. Kendall is set to appear on the BBC today as repercussions from Mandelson’s nomination as U.S. ambassador persist. On Saturday, Lammy confirmed Starmer would have halted the appointment upon learning of the vetting failure. Several ministers have voiced backing for Starmer since Thursday’s revelation that Mandelson did not clear security checks. According to a Sunday Times report, the failure stemmed from Mandelson’s lobbying firm, Global Counsel, having a major client connected to China’s military. Opponents have renewed demands for Starmer’s resignation following this news, with further pressure anticipated from Reform UK’s finance spokesperson Robert Jenrick and Conservative shadow minister Alex Burghart on the BBC today. Updates will follow.
