Starmer pressured over Mandelson scandal

The British government is embroiled in a deepening crisis after sacked Foreign Office chief Sir Olly Robbins provided damning testimony regarding the vetting of Lord Peter Mandelson.

Robbins told a parliamentary committee that No 10 maintained a 'dismissive' attitude toward security protocols and exerted constant pressure to secure Mandelson's post in Washington.

The fallout has sparked public dissent from senior Cabinet ministers and led to a leak inquiry into Mandelson's failed security checks.

Labour MPs are reportedly questioning Starmer's judgment and discussing the potential for a leadership challenge as the scandal undermines civil service morale.