A top civil servant is under scrutiny regarding the vetting process of Lord Peter Mandelson, adding pressure on Keir Starmer over the appointment. Cat Little, the highest-ranking official in the Cabinet Office, is testifying before the Foreign Affairs Committee to address the clearance procedure for the controversial peer.
Sir Olly Robbins was dismissed by the Prime Minister last week upon discovering that the Foreign Office had deployed Lord Mandelson to Washington despite security concerns raised during vetting. Little defended her decision not to disclose the information, criticizing No10 for a lax approach to vetting and alleging external pressure to expedite the appointment process.
Facing questions beyond her usual scope, Little disclosed her direct request to security officials for information after Sir Olly’s refusal to share vetting details. She emphasized her responsibility to ensure full compliance and advised the Prime Minister based on the available information.
Little’s prompt action upon learning of the Mandelson vetting issues was highlighted, asserting that she acted swiftly and appropriately. When queried about Robbins’ alleged lack of access to briefing documents, she refrained from commenting due to public disclosure through leaks.
Insisting on following due process in Lord Mandelson’s appointment, Little clarified the decision-making framework involving UK Security Vetting and the Foreign Office. She detailed her efforts to obtain key documents from the Foreign Office, highlighting the lack of cooperation in providing crucial information.
Regarding the Cabinet Office’s involvement in the vetting process, Little clarified her oversight role and reiterated her non-involvement in appointing Lord Mandelson. She explained the consultations between departments and the standard procedure for political appointees assuming ambassadorial roles.
In response to claims of Cabinet division over the Mandelson scandal, a government minister dismissed the notion as baseless. The minister emphasized the government’s unity and focus on their responsibilities amidst ongoing controversies.
Morgan McSweeney, Keir Starmer’s former top aide, is scheduled to testify before MPs as part of efforts to manage the fallout from the Mandelson scandal. McSweeney’s resignation in February, citing accountability for advising Mandelson’s appointment, has further fueled the political turmoil surrounding the issue.