Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has called on Labour MPs to support an investigation into whether Prime Minister Keir Starmer misled Parliament concerning the appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador.

Sleaze Probe Vote Scheduled

The House of Commons is scheduled to vote on Tuesday evening on an opposition-led motion to investigate whether Starmer knowingly provided false information about the vetting process for Mandelson. Mandelson’s appointment occurred despite warnings from officials regarding his connections to controversial individuals and foreign business interests.

Potential Government Instability

A defeat for Starmer in the vote could potentially destabilize his government and even lead to his resignation. Downing Street is reportedly enforcing a three-line whip on Labour MPs to ensure their support.

Badenoch's Appeal to Labour MPs

In an op-ed published in the Daily Mail, Badenoch argued that MPs have a moral obligation to hold Starmer accountable for what she described as a disregard for Parliament. She urged Labour backbenchers to prioritize their duty to the public over strict party loyalty.

Transparency and Accountability at Stake

Badenoch emphasized that the issue transcends partisan politics, stating that Labour MPs must choose between protecting the Prime Minister and upholding transparency and accountability. The controversy centers on Starmer’s repeated claims that ‘full due process’ was followed in Mandelson’s appointment, despite evidence suggesting otherwise.

Evidence to be Presented

Former Foreign Office chief Sir Philip Barton is expected to testify before MPs on Tuesday, corroborating claims made by his successor, Sir Olly Robbins, that officials faced pressure from No 10 to expedite the vetting process. Ian Collard, a former Foreign Office security chief, has also supported these allegations, citing undue pressure from Downing Street.

Further Testimony Expected

Morgan McSweeney, Starmer’s former chief of staff, is also scheduled to provide evidence related to the scandal. Opposition MPs are seeking a Commons Privileges Committee investigation, similar to the process that led to Boris Johnson’s resignation.

Starmer's Response and Internal Dissent

Starmer has dismissed the vote as a political tactic, maintaining that his government has been transparent. However, his attempts to blame officials, including the dismissal of Sir Olly Robbins, have not silenced criticism. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy admitted to warning Starmer against appointing Mandelson, highlighting growing dissent within the Labour Party.

Concerns Over Mandelson's Past

The scandal has further eroded public trust in Starmer’s leadership, particularly following revelations about Mandelson’s ties to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and questionable business dealings in Russia and China. Liberal Democrat MP Lisa Smart has urged Labour backbenchers to prioritize principle, while Angela Rayner, Starmer’s deputy, has reportedly indicated she will not support the inquiry.