Keir Starmer faced criticism during Prime Minister’s Questions following the release of new government documents detailing the close relationship between Lord Peter Mandelson and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The Prime Minister supported Lord Mandelson, the UK’s ambassador to the US, after a note surfaced indicating that he referred to Epstein as his “best pal.” Starmer emphasized that the victims of Epstein are a top priority and condemned Epstein as a “despicable criminal.” He acknowledged that the ambassador has expressed regret for his association with Epstein but expressed confidence in him, highlighting his essential role in UK-US relations. Subsequently, a Labour MP called for Lord Mandelson’s resignation if any rules were violated.
Labour MP Bell Ribeiro-Addy, a contender for the position of deputy leader, urged Lord Mandelson to step down as UK Ambassador to Washington if any regulations were breached. Another Labour MP, Liz Twist, raised concerns about suicide prevention, to which Starmer reiterated the government’s commitment to collaborate across party lines on this issue.
Starmer praised the government’s decision to offer young children a free chickenpox vaccine starting next year. He also criticized a doctor at Reform UK’s conference for spreading baseless claims linking vaccines to cancer, emphasizing the dangers of such conspiracies. At the conference, Dr. Aseem Malhotra alleged a connection between Covid vaccines and cancer, a statement that drew scrutiny.
Former Green Party leader Carla Denyer questioned the PM about Israeli arms companies participating in an upcoming arms fair in London and urged him to prevent the display of Gaza-tested weapons in the UK. The PM assured that strict regulations were in place regarding arms sales and emphasized government actions taken in response.
SNP MP Stephen Flynn criticized the PM for meeting the Israeli President at Downing Street, questioning the decision to engage with leaders like Vladimir Putin or Benjamin Netanyahu. Starmer defended diplomatic efforts and condemned extremist activities, highlighting measures taken to address concerns related to Gaza.
During questioning, Kemi Badenoch asked Starmer about his stance on Lord Mandelson following revelations of his close ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Starmer reiterated concern for Epstein’s victims, called Epstein a criminal, and expressed support for Lord Mandelson while emphasizing the ambassador’s regret for his association with Epstein. The PM clarified that due process was followed in Lord Mandelson’s appointment.
Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey also raised queries regarding Lord Mandelson during the session. Starmer commenced PMQs by denouncing Israel’s recent strikes in Doha, emphasizing the importance of peace and condemning actions that violate sovereignty.
Starmer is expected to meet with Israeli President Isaac Herzog to address concerns over Gaza. Health Secretary Wes Streeting pressed for clarification from Herzog on Israel’s actions and urged accountability for allegations of war crimes and genocide. The UK government refrained from accusing Israel of genocide, citing the legal definition of the crime.
The PM may face further inquiries about Lord Mandelson during PMQs, given the ongoing scrutiny over his association with Epstein. Lord Mandelson expressed deep regret for his past interactions with Epstein and acknowledged the embarrassment caused by recent revelations. He expressed sympathy for Epstein’s victims and denounced his criminal activities.
In a separate incident, the PM condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin for recent actions in Ukraine and airspace violations over Poland. Starmer expressed solidarity with Poland and Ukraine, highlighting the need for peace and the support extended to NATO forces in response to the Russian incursion.
Keir Starmer will engage in Prime Minister’s Questions today following Angela Rayner’s resignation. The PM stood by Rayner initially but accepted her resignation following ethical concerns, leading to a significant Cabinet reshuffle.
