Attempts to initiate a probe into Keir Starmer’s involvement in the Peter Mandelson vetting controversy have been rejected as mere political tactics. The Conservative party is urging Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle to allow a vote on whether to refer the Prime Minister to the influential Privileges Committee for allegedly providing misleading information to Parliament regarding the peer’s appointment as US ambassador.
Previously, the committee found Boris Johnson guilty of misleading Parliament in the Partygate scandal, resulting in a 90-day suspension that led the former PM to resign before facing the consequences.
Speaker Hoyle is anticipated to address MPs imminently. While a successful vote is unlikely due to Labour’s significant majority, it would intensify the pressure on the PM. Questions have been raised about his judgment as the former Labour senior figure was dispatched to Washington despite concerns raised by vetting officials.
Dominic Grieve, a former Tory attorney general, criticized the push for a Privileges Committee referral, stating that it is premature as the investigation is ongoing and all evidence has not been reviewed. He emphasized the importance of preventing ministers from misleading Parliament but cautioned against turning it into a political spectacle.
Harriet Harman, who led the investigation into Johnson, advised against pursuing the Privileges Committee route, highlighting an existing investigation by the Foreign Affairs Select Committee. She emphasized the need to allow the current processes to unfold.
Baroness Harman acknowledged the PM’s apology for appointing Lord Mandelson but criticized Starmer’s decision to dismiss Sir Olly Robbins from the Foreign Office, exacerbating the situation.
Cabinet Minister Darren Jones defended the PM, stating that there is no basis for the allegations as Sir Olly did not inform Starmer about concerns over Mandelson’s vetting.
A source from No10 labeled the Tories’ actions as a baseless political move to divert attention from critical issues like the cost of living and healthcare.
The scrutiny over Lord Mandelson’s vetting continues this week, with MPs set to question key figures involved in the appointment.
Despite growing doubts about his leadership, Starmer affirmed that the majority of Labour MPs support him and want him to remain as PM, emphasizing the importance of focusing on governing rather than engaging in public disputes.