Ministers Cautioned Against Publishing Mandelson Messages Amid Police Probe
Published 10 February 2026
Highlights
- Ministers have been advised not to publish messages with Lord Mandelson amid a police investigation into his alleged misconduct.
- The Met police are investigating claims that Mandelson passed sensitive information to Jeffrey Epstein.
- Health Secretary Wes Streeting released his WhatsApp exchanges with Mandelson, sparking controversy and warnings from the Cabinet Office.
- Keir Starmer emphasized the need for a "managed process" in releasing documents related to Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador.
- The investigation involves reviewing documents to ensure no compromise to legal proceedings.
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Rewritten Article
Headline: Ministers Cautioned Against Publishing Mandelson Messages Amid Police Probe
In a developing political and legal saga, UK ministers have been cautioned against releasing their communications with Lord Peter Mandelson, following Health Secretary Wes Streeting's decision to publish his WhatsApp messages with the former ambassador. This advisory comes as the Metropolitan Police investigate allegations that Mandelson, during his tenure as business secretary, passed sensitive information to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein.
Police Investigation and Government Transparency
The Met police have launched a criminal investigation into claims of misconduct in public office, focusing on Mandelson's alleged sharing of market-sensitive information with Epstein. Officers have already searched properties linked to Mandelson as part of their inquiries. A Met spokesperson emphasized the importance of following due process to avoid compromising the investigation or any potential prosecution. The Cabinet Office has been tasked with reviewing documents to determine which can be safely published without affecting the ongoing legal proceedings.
Streeting's Controversial Message Release
Wes Streeting's unilateral decision to release his private exchanges with Mandelson has drawn criticism and warnings from the Cabinet Office. The messages, spanning from August 2024 to October 2025, reveal Streeting's concerns about the government's lack of a growth strategy and his skepticism towards No 10's communication efforts. Streeting, seen as a potential Labour leadership contender, stated his intention was to dispel any insinuations of wrongdoing on his part.
Calls for a Coordinated Approach
Labour leader Keir Starmer has stressed the need for a coordinated approach in handling the release of documents related to Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador. Speaking at an event in Hertfordshire, Starmer highlighted the necessity of acting together to ensure transparency and accountability while respecting the legal process. He reiterated the importance of liaising with both Parliament and the police to manage the situation effectively.
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Scenario Analysis
The ongoing investigation into Lord Mandelson's alleged misconduct could have significant political and legal ramifications. If the Met police find substantial evidence, it could lead to charges that might impact Mandelson's reputation and any future political roles. For the Labour Party, the situation presents a delicate balancing act between maintaining transparency and safeguarding legal integrity. Keir Starmer's leadership could be tested as he navigates the complexities of managing internal party dynamics while ensuring compliance with legal protocols. As the investigation unfolds, the government's handling of document releases will be scrutinized, potentially influencing public trust in political transparency and accountability.
In a developing political and legal saga, UK ministers have been cautioned against releasing their communications with Lord Peter Mandelson, following Health Secretary Wes Streeting's decision to publish his WhatsApp messages with the former ambassador. This advisory comes as the Metropolitan Police investigate allegations that Mandelson, during his tenure as business secretary, passed sensitive information to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein.
Police Investigation and Government Transparency
The Met police have launched a criminal investigation into claims of misconduct in public office, focusing on Mandelson's alleged sharing of market-sensitive information with Epstein. Officers have already searched properties linked to Mandelson as part of their inquiries. A Met spokesperson emphasized the importance of following due process to avoid compromising the investigation or any potential prosecution. The Cabinet Office has been tasked with reviewing documents to determine which can be safely published without affecting the ongoing legal proceedings.
Streeting's Controversial Message Release
Wes Streeting's unilateral decision to release his private exchanges with Mandelson has drawn criticism and warnings from the Cabinet Office. The messages, spanning from August 2024 to October 2025, reveal Streeting's concerns about the government's lack of a growth strategy and his skepticism towards No 10's communication efforts. Streeting, seen as a potential Labour leadership contender, stated his intention was to dispel any insinuations of wrongdoing on his part.
Calls for a Coordinated Approach
Labour leader Keir Starmer has stressed the need for a coordinated approach in handling the release of documents related to Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador. Speaking at an event in Hertfordshire, Starmer highlighted the necessity of acting together to ensure transparency and accountability while respecting the legal process. He reiterated the importance of liaising with both Parliament and the police to manage the situation effectively.
What this might mean
The ongoing investigation into Lord Mandelson's alleged misconduct could have significant political and legal ramifications. If the Met police find substantial evidence, it could lead to charges that might impact Mandelson's reputation and any future political roles. For the Labour Party, the situation presents a delicate balancing act between maintaining transparency and safeguarding legal integrity. Keir Starmer's leadership could be tested as he navigates the complexities of managing internal party dynamics while ensuring compliance with legal protocols. As the investigation unfolds, the government's handling of document releases will be scrutinized, potentially influencing public trust in political transparency and accountability.
