A high-ranking government official is under scrutiny regarding the vetting process of Lord Peter Mandelson, putting pressure on Keir Starmer over the decision. Cat Little, the top Cabinet Office official, is set to address the Foreign Affairs Committee about how the controversial peer received clearance. The Prime Minister dismissed Sir Olly Robbins recently upon discovering that security concerns were not relayed regarding Lord Mandelson’s appointment to Washington. Despite facing criticism, the senior civil servant defended his decision not to disclose the information, alleging a dismissive attitude towards vetting protocols from No10 and suggesting undue pressure to expedite the clearance process.
The session is nearing its conclusion, with Cat Little facing queries beyond her designated scope. When questioned about keeping the PM uninformed of UKSV recommendations, Little refrained from commenting. Additionally, she could not explain Sir Olly Robbins’ characterization of Lord Mandelson’s case as “borderline.” Little emphasized the involvement of experienced security professionals in decision-making processes and clarified the need for legal guidance before disclosing sensitive information to the PM.
Regarding the handling of the Mandelson vetting issues, Little revealed that she informed the PM in mid-April after becoming aware of the matter in late March. She defended her actions as prompt and appropriate. Little refrained from commenting on Robbins’ alleged lack of access to briefing documents, citing public disclosure through leaks. She asserted that due process was adhered to in Mandelson’s appointment, following recommendations from UK Security Vetting and subsequent decisions by the Foreign Office.
Little detailed discussions between the Cabinet Office and Foreign Office regarding Mandelson’s vetting requirement, ruling out any obstruction in the process. She underscored her oversight role in coordinating services for other departments, including UK Security Vetting, without involvement in day-to-day operations. Little clarified that while departments sought advice from one another, it was not uncommon for political appointees to assume ambassadorial roles.
In response to claims of a Cabinet split over the Mandelson controversy, a minister dismissed such notions as baseless. The minister emphasized unity within the Cabinet and a focus on task execution. In a related development, Keir Starmer’s former aide, Morgan McSweeney, will face parliamentary questioning following his resignation over the Mandelson appointment. The aide took responsibility for advising the PM on the appointment amid public outcry over Mandelson’s association with Jeffrey Epstein.
Senior civil servant Cat Little is set to address inquiries about Lord Peter Mandelson’s vetting process, adding to the pressure on Keir Starmer regarding the appointment. Scheduled to appear before the Foreign Affairs Committee, Little will discuss the clearance process for the disgraced peer.