Keir Starmer faced criticism during Prime Minister’s Questions following the release of new government documents exposing the close relationship between Lord Peter Mandelson and convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.
The Prime Minister expressed support for Lord Mandelson, the UK’s ambassador to the US, after a note surfaced suggesting he referred to Epstein as his “best friend”. In response, Starmer emphasized the importance of the victims of Epstein, labeling him a “despicable criminal”. He acknowledged that the ambassador has expressed regret for his association with Epstein but maintained confidence in him, highlighting his significant role in UK-US relations. Following the session, a Labour MP called for Lord Mandelson’s resignation if any rules were breached.
Labour MP Bell Ribeiro-Addy, a contender for the deputy leader position, urged Lord Mandelson to step down as UK Ambassador to Washington if any rules were violated. Meanwhile, Labour MP Liz Twist raised concerns about suicide prevention, which Starmer affirmed as a priority for the Government.
Starmer commended the Government’s recent decision to provide young children with a free chickenpox vaccine starting next year. He also criticized a doctor at the Reform UK conference for spreading unfounded claims linking vaccines to cancer, stressing the dangers of such conspiracies.
At the same conference, Dr. Aseem Malhotra made controversial statements suggesting a link between Covid vaccines and cancer, echoing concerns raised by former Green Party leader Carla Denyer about Israeli arms companies showcasing weapons at a London arms fair. The PM assured that strict regulations govern such events and highlighted the Government’s actions regarding arms sales.
SNP MP Stephen Flynn criticized the PM for hosting the Israeli President at Downing Street, questioning whether similar invitations would be extended to other world leaders. In response, Starmer emphasized the importance of diplomacy and condemned extremist activities, underscoring the suspension of arms that could potentially impact Gaza.
During the session, Kemi Badenoch confronted Starmer about his support for Lord Mandelson following revelations of his association with Epstein. Starmer reiterated the seriousness of Epstein’s crimes and Lord Mandelson’s regret, expressing confidence in his role as ambassador.
Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey also raised concerns about Lord Mandelson’s situation, while Starmer began PMQs by condemning Israeli strikes in Doha, emphasizing the need for peace and condemning actions violating Qatar’s sovereignty. Starmer planned to meet with President Herzog to address Israel’s recent offensive against Gaza.
The UK government refrained from accusing Israel of genocide, referencing legal definitions of the crime. Starmer was expected to address questions regarding Peter Mandelson at PMQs, emphasizing the ambassador’s regret over his association with Epstein.
The PM condemned Russian President Putin’s actions in Ukraine and Poland, expressing support for Ukraine and Poland while working with NATO allies to pressure Putin for a peaceful resolution.
Keir Starmer was set to face MPs at Prime Minister’s Questions following Angela Rayner’s resignation. The PM previously supported Rayner but accepted her resignation due to a breach of the ministerial code, leading to a significant Cabinet reshuffle.