Keir Starmer scolded for 'astonishing' handling of Peter Mandelson appointment as Tory pushes for sleaze probe

Georgia Pearce
Mon, 27 Apr 2026 11:33:19 +0000

The Conservative Party is seeking a parliamentary vote to refer Sir Keir Starmer to the Commons Privileges Committee over allegations he deliberately misled MPs, Shadow Defence Secretary James Cartlidge has confirmed.

The investigation would examine whether the Prime Minister was truthful in his statements to Parliament concerning the appointment of Peter Mandelson as Britain's ambassador to the United States.

Mr Cartlidge told GB News that the Tories remain "determined to do our job as the official Opposition to hold the Prime Minister to account".

He expressed disbelief at the PM's position on the matter, stating: "I find it astonishing to believe that Keir Starmer thinks he followed due process in the appointment of Peter Mandelson to this most sensitive position."

TRENDING

Stories

Videos

Your Say

The Shadow Defence Secretary noted that while the Speaker will ultimately determine how proceedings advance, Conservatives are committed to pursuing accountability.

He voiced deep concern about the timing of the Government's internal turmoil, pointing to unprecedented global instability.

"We have a situation which I'm bound to say, war on two fronts, probably the most heightened military tension we've had in the world since the fall of the Berlin Wall," Mr Cartlidge said.

He characterised the administration as "deeply distracted and deeply divided," arguing this poses a significant problem for Britain at a moment demanding robust leadership.

"I think that this isn't good for the country at a time when we need strong leadership. We're just not getting that," he added.

Mr Cartlidge acknowledged growing speculation about Sir Keir's future, though he suggested any leadership change would not occur swiftly.

His primary concern, he emphasised, was ensuring ministers properly address domestic and international challenges.

Mr Cartlidge reflected on the privileges afforded to parliamentarians under the historic Bill of Rights, which protects MPs from legal action over their statements in the Commons.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

Lindsay Hoyle to make crunch decision over claims on whether Keir Starmer misleading Parliament

Keir Starmer to make Labour MPs block sleaze probe as PM braces for crunch vote

Police to question No10 staff over Morgan McSweeney's missing phone

"We as MPs are very fortunate under the Bill of Rights, which goes back centuries, we have the right to speak in Parliament without fear of being sued for what we say," he explained.

However, he stressed this freedom carries an obligation of honesty. "But it comes with responsibility, and the responsibility is to tell the truth and not knowingly mislead," the Shadow Defence Secretary said.

He questioned the Prime Minister's handling of the Washington ambassadorship, describing it as "this most sensitive position" given the current international climate with conflicts on multiple fronts.

Mr Cartlidge addressed reports suggesting the Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner may be manoeuvring against Sir Keir, warning such a development would carry grave implications.

He said: "If that happens, I do think it will be very serious. Because from what she said so far, it's not like she's going to move this country to the centre."

The Shadow Defence Secretary indicated that a Government led by Angela Rayner would likely face strong Conservative opposition, citing his belief in free enterprise and fiscal responsibility.

While acknowledging the speculation remained premature, Mr Cartlidge reaffirmed his commitment to representing South Suffolk constituents and holding any Prime Minister accountable.

He pledged the party would continue advancing policies developed under Kemi Badenoch's leadership, with further announcements expected this week.