Starmer under Pressure over Mandelson Scandal
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing fresh calls from the opposition to resign following revelations that his former ambassador to the US, Peter Mandelson, failed a security clearance but took up his post anyway.
The government has confirmed that Mandelson did not undergo a security clearance before taking office. He was later removed after Starmer said he lied about the nature of his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.
Cabinet claims the prime minister was unaware that officials at the State Department had overturned the security clearance recommendation. The department's top official Olly Robbins is due to quit after losing Starmer's confidence.
Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey has said the Prime Minister cannot absolve himself of responsibility by sacking Olly Robbins. He also claims that Starmer misled parliament and the public.
The Prime Minister apologised for the appointment but defended his actions. He accused Mandelson of a "series of lies" about his links to Epstein and promised to release documents about his appointment.
Minister Darren Jones said the prime minister was "furious" to learn of the failed vetting and would inform parliament about the case on Monday. He also denied that Starmer had misled the public.
Mandelson is being investigated on suspicion of leaking government documents to Jeffrey Epstein.