Mandelson vetting scandal deepens

The political crisis surrounding Peter Mandelson's appointment has intensified following bombshell testimony from the former head of the Foreign Office.

Sir Olly Robbins alleged that he was pushed to clear Mandelson despite a vetting failure, claiming the Prime Minister's team treated security protocols as a mere formality.

Robbins also revealed that No. 10 had sought a diplomatic role for Matthew Doyle, a former aide with controversial associations.

The revelations have left Prime Minister Keir Starmer facing mounting calls for his resignation as the integrity of the civil service vetting process is called into question.