The Intelligence and Security Committee has accused the Government of unlawfully withholding Peter Mandelson’s vetting file. The committee, led by Labour peer Lord Beamish, expressed concern over the lack of official records and the extensive use of unofficial platforms like WhatsApp for government business. They criticized the security of Westminster IT systems and emphasized the need for proper government channels for conducting official affairs.
Furthermore, the committee highlighted the absence of a comprehensive audit trail for important documents related to Mandelson’s appointment. Despite the Government’s agreement to release most documents, certain files, including the vetting file held by UK Security Vetting, are being withheld on grounds of national security.
The committee stressed that the Government does not have the authority to withhold files without Parliament’s approval. Opposition leader Sir Ed Davey condemned the refusal to release Mandelson’s vetting file and urged the Prime Minister to intervene to ensure transparency. In response, a Cabinet Office spokesperson affirmed the Government’s commitment to transparency and compliance with parliamentary requests, promising to redact only when necessary and to publish material promptly.