Government accused of redacting too much of the Mandelson files

• The Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) has accused the government of withholding documents and applying "far too broad" redactions to files concerning Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador.
• The ISC claims a crucial vetting file is being entirely withheld, arguing the government lacks the authority to do so without parliamentary approval.
• The committee expressed "grave concerns" over the extensive use of unofficial communication systems, such as WhatsApp, for government business, warning it poses national security risks.
• The ISC criticised the government for failing to adhere to security advice and using less secure IT systems, which further jeopardises national security.
• The committee highlighted a significant lack of an audit trail within government departments, particularly the Foreign Office, regarding agendas, minutes, and records of conversations.

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Starmer accused of ‘withholding’ documents from Mandelson probe