Questioned repeatedly at prime minister’s questions, Starmer said Mandelson had “betrayed our country” in his dealings with Epstein. “He lied repeatedly to my team, when asked about his relationship with Epstein before and during his tenure as ambassador,” the prime minister said. It was, however, vital to first remove documents that related to national security or could jeopardise international relations, he said. Badenoch accused the prime minister of using national security as “a red herring”, saying the Tory motion would also take account of national security. The revelations have prompted a furious backlash from across the political spectrum, including from Brown, prime minister at the time of the alleged breaches.

Source: The Guardian February 04, 2026 19:46 UTC