Sacked official reveals Mandelson pressure

In a devastating parliamentary hearing, the recently sacked civil servant Sir Olly Robbins detailed a toxic culture of political pressure regarding the appointment of Peter Mandelson.

Robbins testified that Number 10 officials were dismissive of security concerns and demanded that the vetting process be fast-tracked to ensure Mandelson reached Washington.

The scandal has left Prime Minister Keir Starmer facing accusations of undermining the civil service to protect a political ally.

Labour backbenchers are reportedly questioning the Prime Minister's judgment as the fallout threatens his leadership.