Hundreds of files relating to Lord Peter Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador could be released on Wednesday by Downing Street.
Parliamentary sources said Cabinet minister Darren Jones is expected to address the House of Commons after PMQs, leading to accusations that Sir Keir Starmer is attempting to “dodge questions” over Lord Mandelson’s vetting process.
Damaging disclosures from the so-called ‘Epstein files’ led MPs to order the government to release documents relating to his appointment and what was known about his friendship with the convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.
While Lord Mandelson was sacked last September, it has raised questions over the prime minister’s judgement.
Shadow Cabinet Office minister Alex Burghart said: “His fingers are all over this. He’s already admitted that he knew about Mandelson’s ongoing relationship with Epstein when he appointed him. Time and again his judgment has been found wanting.”
Lord Mandelson was arrested on 23 February on suspicion of misconduct in public office, having been accused of passing sensitive information on to Epstein during his time as business secretary.
He remains under police investigation.
