Good morning. I’m Libby, joining First Edition today as lead writer. I have reported for the Guardian from locations including East Timor and Easterhouse, and I aim to connect directly with readers amid rising misinformation. Guardian journalism serves as connective tissue to combat isolation and support democracy, and First Edition will contribute by offering clear briefings on major stories while testing new formats. Please share feedback on what works. The latest release of documents on Peter Mandelson’s time as US ambassador has renewed focus on his ties to Jeffrey Epstein and his appointment by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. MPs had voted in February to publish the files after Mandelson was dismissed last year. The second batch appeared on Monday and highlighted internal doubts about Starmer’s leadership expressed in messages. Luke Tryl of More in Common noted that the disclosures reinforce perceptions of a rigged system with different rules for politicians. Earlier scandals, from the Iraq war and expenses to Partygate, have already eroded confidence over decades. Other headlines include calls for calm after the murder of Henry Nowak, US-Iran missile exchanges, weight-loss drugs reducing cancer risks, a fine for South West Water, and a failed appeal by a British couple jailed in Iran.
