Mandelson vetting scandal escalates

Prime Minister Keir Starmer is under intense pressure following revelations that Lord Peter Mandelson may have bypassed standard security protocols for his diplomatic appointment.

Cabinet Office Permanent Secretary Cat Little testified that her department conducted 'multiple discussions' regarding Mandelson's historical ties to Jeffrey Epstein.

The scandal has triggered reports of a significant cabinet split, with some ministers expressing 'deep frustration' over the lack of transparency.

Former Foreign Office chief Sir Olly Robbins has also been implicated, with allegations that he refused to share critical vetting documents with oversight officials.