Sir Keir Starmer refused to confirm that Rachel Reeves would keep her job as chancellor in a rumoured cabinet reshuffle as he took questions from MPs.
At prime minister’s questions, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch asked Sir Keir whether Ms Reeves would be moved out of her post, stating it would be in the best interests of the country.
The chancellor’s future and the prospect of a reshuffle after the local elections have been the subject of recent speculation but Sir Keir failed to guarantee her survival in his response, leading Ms Badenoch to reply: “I didn't hear him say he’s not reshuffling the chancellor. It sounds like she’s toast.”
The prime minister faced a grilling from MPs the day after avoiding an inquiry into claims he misled Parliament over the Peter Mandelson vetting saga.
By 112 votes, 335 to 223, Labour used its parliamentary majority on Tuesday to block a “sleaze” inquiry by the powerful Commons Privileges Committee into whether the prime minister misled parliament about the appointment of Lord Mandelson as ambassador to Washington.
Starmer escapes sleaze inquiry after ex-top aide takes blame for Mandelson vetting scandal
One more time, Mr McSweeney comes to Sir Keir Starmer’s aid
Full list of Labour MPs who rebelled against government in vote on Mandelson appointment
Starmer survives crucial vote – but at a cost to his MPs and parliament
Key Points
- Starmer escapes sleaze inquiry after ex-top aide takes blame for Mandelson vetting scandal
- Analysis: Starmer's attempt to coax Rayner back to Cabinet is a last ditch attempt to save himself
- The full list of Labour MPs who voted for the motion
- Starmer’s premiership ‘on the ropes’, says US ambassador in leaked recording
- MP says it was 'wrong' to order backbenchers to oppose the investigation
US ambassador Sir Christian Turner’s recent comments are 'the least of my problems', Starmer says
14:00 , Dan HaygarthUS ambassador Sir Christian Turner’s recent comments are “the least of my problems” the Prime Minister has told the Commons.
At Prime Minister’s Questions, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said: “Yesterday we heard Christian Turner, Peter Mandelson’s replacement as US ambassador, say that the only country Trump has a special relationship with is Israel, that the prime minister’s job is in danger after next week’s elections, and that in the US Jeffrey Epstein’s associates have evaded responsibility for their actions.
“The prime minister has had to fire one US ambassador for lying. Does he fear he’ll now have to fire a second one for telling the truth?”
Sir Keir Starmer replied: “Given what I’ve had thrown at me in the last two weeks by all the opposition parties, that’s the least of my problems. But, I know he likes stunts, but I was surprised he joined in the one yesterday because his own business spokesman said last week, satisfied I had not misled the House.
“He of course, his opening position was it was inconceivable that officials will give clearance to Mandelson and not tell ministers it was against the UKSV recommendation. That’s what he said, and it didn’t happen. I expect frivolous accusations from the leader of the Opposition (Kemi Badenoch). Clearly, I was wrong to expect anything better than from the man in the wetsuit.”
Sir Ed then said: “I’ve got my dry suit on today.”
Rumours of a return for Rayner continue to grow
13:59 , Maryam Zakir-HussainPolitics writer Athena Stavrou reports:
Angela Rayner has reportedly been offered a chance to return to Sir Keir Starmer’s Cabinet in what has been seen as an attempt to strengthen his leadership ahead of crunch local elections.
When asked about the reports on Wednesday, the prime minister’s press secretary said that while they would not comment the speculation, but referred to Sir Keir’s previous comments.
In December, the prime minister described Ms Rayner as “hugely talented” and said he would like to see her return to his frontbench.
Asked if he missed his former deputy, Sir Keir said: “Yes, of course I do. I was really sad that we lost her. As I said to her at the time, she’s going to be a major voice in the Labour movement.”
'Absolutely no place for antisemitism in society' - Mayor of London
13:52 , Maryam Zakir-HussainMayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan said: “There has been an appalling attack on two Jewish Londoners in Golders Green.“
London’s Jewish community have been the target of a series of shocking antisemitic attacks.
“There must be absolutely no place for antisemitism in society.”
He urged anyone with information to contact police, and said the Met will step up patrols in the wake of the stabbings.
Comment - Labour just made a dreadful, expensive decision on its creaking military gear
13:45 , Dan HaygarthBurying the bad news of a non-decision over a useless but expensive defence disaster on a day when all eyes were on the PM shows the government putting politics above good sense, writes world affairs editor Sam Kiley.
Read below:
Labour just made a dreadful, expensive decision on its creaking military gear
Starmer confident in US ambassador that said he was ‘on the ropes’
13:39 , Maryam Zakir-HussainPolitics writer Athena Stavrou reports:
Sir Keir Starmer remains confident in his US ambassador despite it having emerged that he said the prime minister’s government was “on the ropes”.
In a leaked recording that emerged on Tuesday, Sir Christian Turner was heard telling sixth-form students on a visit to Washington that his predecessor Peter Mandelson and “potentially the prime minister” had been “brought down” by the fallout of his appointment.
On Wednesday, Downing Street insisted the ambassador is “focused on the successful delivery” of the King’s US state visit.
Asked if the prime minister remained confident in Sir Christian, the prime minister’s official spokesman said: “Yes.”
Downing Street insists PM still has full confidence in Reeves - despite failure to back her in the Commons
13:29 , Maryam Zakir-HussainPolitics writer Athena Stavrou reports:
No 10 has insisted that the prime minister still has full confidence in the Chancellor, despite Sir Keir Starmer refusing to say if she will keep her job during PMQs.
The prime minister was unable to say whether Rachel Reeves would remain as Chancellor when he was grilled about a rumoured cabinet reshuffle on Wednesday.
But Downing Street later insisted that the prime minister remains confident in Reeves.
The prime minister’s official spokesman said: “The position remains unchanged. [There is] full confidence in the Chancellor.”
Home secretary says 'thoughts are with victims of abhorrent attack' in Golders Green
13:28 , Maryam Zakir-HussainHome secretary Shabana Mahmood said: “My thoughts are with the victims of the abhorrent attack in Golders Green this morning, and the Jewish community.
“I’m grateful for the work of the community and the police in apprehending the suspect, and to the emergency services for their quick response.
“The suspect is now in custody and I’m being kept updated on the situation.”
Starmer ‘squandered’ political capital saving his skin over Mandelson – Badenoch
13:20 , Dan Haygarth
Sir Keir Starmer has “squandered” his political capital “saving his own skin”, Kemi Badenoch said, after a bid to launch an inquiry into claims he misled Parliament over the Peter Mandelson affair was defeated.
Labour MPs were ordered to oppose Tuesday’s motion which would have seen the prime minister referred to the Commons Privileges Committee, in an echo of the process that eventually ended Boris Johnson’s political career.
At Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday, Sir Keir said the move by the Tories was rejected “decisively because everyone saw it for what it was – a desperate, baseless political stunt ahead of the May elections”.
However, Mrs Badenoch accused Sir Keir of “begging” his MPs to back him, adding: “The whole country is sick of this man’s tone deaf, pompous moralising.”
Opening the final PMQs before Parliament is suspended, Mrs Badenoch said: “It’s the end of this session and what a contrast with the beginning.
“Back in July 2024 those benches were full of sycophantic questions from adoring new MPs, yesterday the prime minister was reduced to begging those same MPs to save his own skin.”
She went on to say: “This Government is like a bad episode of Game Of Thrones.
“His own people have turned against him and all the while, the prime minister is holed up in his castle, wetting himself about a visit from the King in the North.
“Yesterday, one Labour MP actually said that his days are numbered. That’s one of them. I wonder who it was because they’re all looking guilty as hell.
“Isn’t the real reason the prime minister can’t cut welfare that he squandered all his political capital saving his own skin?”
'Attacks on our Jewish community are attacks on Britain', Starmer says after Golders Green stabbing
13:10 , Dan HaygarthThe antisemitic attack in Golders Green is utterly appalling.
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) April 29, 2026
Attacks on our Jewish community are attacks on Britain.
Thank you to Shomrim, Hatzola and the police for acting swiftly. Those responsible will be brought to justice.
Local elections 2026: What are the polls saying for Labour, Reform and the Greens?
13:04 , Daniel HaygarthVoters in England will head to the polls on 7 May to cast their votes with more than 5,000 council seats up for grabs, as pollsters predict a disastrous result for Sir Keir Starmer’s Labour Party.
The prime minister is facing a local election wipeout in just over a week, with some experts predicting the party could see its worst-ever result.
Both Reform and the Greens are forecast to be the big winners at the event, as opinion polling shows discontent with both Labour and the Conservatives growing.
The Independent’s Albert Toth looks at what pollsters are predicting, based on nationwide voting intention.
Local elections 2026: What are the polls saying for Labour, Reform and the Greens?
Badenoch blasts Starmer as a ‘man not in control’ during heated PMQs clash
12:53 , Dan Haygarth
Badenoch blasts Starmer as a ‘man not in control’ during heated PMQs clash
Starmer describes Golders Green stabbing as 'deeply concerning'
12:50 , Dan HaygarthA man has been arrested after two people were stabbed in north-west London on Wednesday morning, a Jewish neighbourhood watch group said.
The incident in Golders Green was raised in the Commons by Hornsey and Friern Barnet MP Catherine West.
She said: “The whole House will be very concerned to hear about the dreadful stabbings this morning in the borough of Barnet.”
The Labour MP said she was “very worried about this repeated violence against the Jewish community”.
She added: “We condemn these alleged attacks and we wish the police, the council and all the community services the very best in solving this and bringing to justice those perpetrators of these violent crimes.”
Sir Keir Starmer said he had been told about the incident before attending Prime Minister’s Questions in the Commons.
He told MPs: “It is deeply concerning to everyone in this House.
“There is now a police investigation and I think we all need to do everything we can to support that investigation and be absolutely clear in our determination to deal with any of these offences, the like of which we have seen too much recently.”
PM will be hoping markets have a better response to Reeves sacking rumours than last time
12:46 , Millie CookeToday at PMQs, Sir Keir Starmer refused to guarantee Rachel Reeves would remain in her job - with the Tories claiming the obfuscation showed that the chancellor is "about to become the next person Starmer throws under a bus - another member of his government sacrificed for the prime minister’s terrible decisions”.
The last time Ms Reeves faced significant speculation over her future as chancellor was in July last year, when she was seen crying at PMQs behind the prime minister.
The shocking scenes unfolded as the prime minister refused to guarantee her future.
But shortly afterwards, the value of the pound fell and borrowing costs surged in one of the biggest single-day moves since October 2022 when markets were in turmoil after former Liz Truss's disastrous mini-budget.
It came as no surprise therefore that the PM then came out to guarantee her survival, and Ms Reeves clarified the tears were as a result of “personal reasons”.
The strong market reaction seems to have guaranteed her safety for another nine months.
But now as rumours swell again, the prime minister will be hoping the markets have a friendlier response than they did last time if he finally decides to wield the axe.
Speaker supports probe into thinktank that put Starmer into power
12:44 , David MaddoxLabour former shadow chancellor John McDonnell, the chair of the all party group for the National Union of Journalists, has just raised a point of order about the activities of Labour Together.
The thinktank, once run by Sir Keir Starmer’s former chief of staff Morgan McSweeney, is credited in putting the prime minister in as leader of the Labour Party.
Mr McDonnell raised concerns about it hiring a PR firm to “smear journalists” and “spy on MPs”.
The Speaker responded by saying he supports an investigation into Labour Together’s activities and suggested Mr McDonnell puts forward a motion to the table office.
Starmer and Badenoch clash on government's record in final PMQs of parliamentary session
12:44 , Dan Haygarth
Sir Keir Starmer and Kemi Badenoch faced off over the Government’s record since it came to power in the final Prime Minister’s Questions of the parliamentary session.
Ahead of Parliament’s prorogation, Mrs Badenoch attacked Sir Keir for rising numbers of people claiming Universal Credit, and poor economic growth.
She also called for him to sack Rachel Reeves as chancellor and the prime minister failed to guarantee her future in his response.
Sir Keir and Ms Badenoch clased on welfare spending, as the leader of the opposition claimed the country is spending more on welfare than it is earning in taxes because of the prime minister’s “terrible policies”.
Ms Badenoch said: “Let me tell him why we’re spending more on welfare than we’re earning in tax. It’s because of him and his terrible policies.
“We are spending so much on welfare that we cannot afford to defend the country.”
Sir Keir responded: “This is the Labour government that increased defence spending to the highest since the Cold War.
“What did they do? When they came into power, defence spending was 2.5 per cent and when they left power, it was 2.3 per cent, and even their own secretary of state admitted they hollowed out our armed forces.
“So we’ll take no lecture from them on defence.”
Starmer administration 'like a bad episode of Game Of Thrones', Badenoch says
12:37 , Dan HaygarthKemi Badenoch described Sir Keir Starmer’s premiership as “like a bad episode of Game Of Thrones”, as the prime minister said a motion to launch an inquiry into claims he misled Parliament over the Peter Mandelson affair was rejected “decisively.”
At Prime Minister’s Questions, the Conservative leader said: “This Government is like a bad episode of Game of Thrones.
“His own people have turned against him and all the while, the prime minister is holed up in his castle, wetting himself about a visit from the King in the North.
“Yesterday, one Labour MP actually said that his days are numbered. That’s one of them. I wonder who it was because they’re all looking guilty as hell.
“Isn’t the real reason the prime minister can’t cut welfare that he squandered all his political capital saving his own skin?”
Referring to Tuesday’s motion on referring the prime minister to the Commons Privileges Committee, Sir Keir replied: “She talks about political games. That’s what she was doing yesterday.”
He said MPs “rejected it decisively because everyone saw it for what it was – a desperate, baseless political stunt ahead of the May elections”.
Ed Davey asks Starmer if he will sack US ambassador over recent remarks
12:34 , Millie CookeSir Ed Davey has asked Sir Keir Starmer if he will sack US ambassador Christian Turner “for telling the truth” after he claimed the PM was “on the ropes” and suggested Labour could “remove” him after next month’s local elections.
Addressing the prime minister at PMQs, Sir Ed said: "Yesterday we heard Christian Turner, Peter Mandelson's replacement as US ambassador, say the only country Trump has a special relationship with is Israel, that the prime minister's job is in danger after next week’s elections and that, in the US, Jeffrey Epstein’s associates have evaded responsibility for their actions.
“The prime minister has had to fire one US ambassador for lying. Does he fear he will now have to fire a second one for telling the truth?”
Responding, Sir Keir said: "Given what I've had thrown at me in the last two weeks by all the opposition parties, that's the least of my problems”
He added: “I know he likes stunts but I was surprised he joined in the one yesterday… I expect frivolous accusations from the leader of the opposition, clearly I was wrong to expect anything better from the man in the wetsuit.”
"I’ve got my dry suit on today”, Sir Ed bizarrely hit back.
PM vows to right 'historic wrongs' of security officials sacked for sexuality
12:31 , Athena StavrouEmily Thornberry has asked the prime minister if he will compensate security officials who lost their jobs due to their sexuality.
The Labour MP told Sir Keir Starmer about a constituent who had wrongly lost their job in MI6 due to their sexuality.
Pointing out that security officials also “put their lives on the line”, she asked if the prime minister would consider giving compensation to these people, as has been done for veterans.
“I am very proud if the work we’ve done to support LGBT veterans,” Sir Keir replied.
“People in our security service are some of the most bravest and talented professionals who served our country. Because some of them lost their jobs because of their sexuality is a historic wrong.”
Watch: Starmer refuses to say if Rachel Reeves will remain as chancellor
12:30 , Dan HaygarthStarmer hails scrapping of no fault evictions as Renters Rights Act comes into force
12:29 , Millie CookeSir Keir Starmer has hailed the scrapping of "no fault evictions" as the Renters Rights Act comes into force on Friday, with the prime minister saying that the reforms "send an important message" to rogue landlords.
He told PMQs: "For too long, renters have been at the mercy of rogue landlords, pushing thousands into homelessness. I'm delighted to confirm that from this Friday, no fault evictions will be scrapped once and for all.
"That sends an important message to anyone living in a damp, unsafe home, anyone who has suffered an unfair rent increase and to every family forced to move year to year."
Whips have been working hard planting friendly questions this week
12:27 , David MaddoxThere have been a number of planted questions with loyal backbenchers to give Keir Starmer an easier week in PMQs this week.
It is not a hard sell for whips to backbenchers because most of them need a bit of a boost to take with them to their constituencies as they try to fight the local election campaign.
So there has been a number of “what is the prime minister proud of” and why various initiatives are brilliant.
Earlier Labour MPs even remembered to cheer when Sir Keir entered the chamber. They forgot last week.
It does not mean that the discontent on the Labour benches has gone away by any means but Labour MPs want to prevent apocalyptic results expected next month.
Watch: Starmer 'is not a man who is in control,' says Kemi Badenoch
12:26 , Dan HaygarthFull exchange as Badenoch calls for Starmer to sack Reeves
12:26 , Dan Haygarth
Kemi Badenoch has called for the prime minister to sack Rachel Reeves as chancellor.
The Tory leader said at PMQs: “He’s got a welfare plan until 2031, but he’s not produced a defence investment plan, we have gone backwards on defence under him, because we are borrowing to pay for welfare.
“Yesterday, we learned that the cost of Government borrowing is now the highest in two decades.
“Instead of getting a grip on the economy, the chancellor is briefing out rent controls to curry favour with left-wing backbenchers.
“It is time the prime minister gives her an easier job, so will he listen to businesses, listen to the country, and reshuffle the chancellor?”
Responding, Sir Keir Starmer said: “In the spring statement, the chancellor was very proud to say inflation was down to 3 per cent and falling. We’ve seen the growth figures for the early part of this year.
“She says, ‘well, the cost of borrowing has gone up’. Yes, because there’s a conflict in Iran. And what did she want to do when I said we wouldn’t be dragged into that war? She said we should jump in with both feet, regardless of the consequences.”
Ms Badenoch replied: “I didn't hear him say he’s not reshuffling the chancellor. It sounds like she’s toast.”
Analysis: Reeves sits next to Starmer as he does not deny planning to sack her
12:22 , Kate Devlin
Sir Keir Starmer’s actions, or lack of them, will set hares running after this PMQs.
Sitting beside him on the frontbench throughout was his chancellor Rachel Reeves.
But when asked by the Tory leader Kemi Badenoch if he would “reshuffle the chancellor”, he failed to rule it out.
Many in Westminster believe the PM is in a no-win situation with Reeves.
Keeping her during the widely expected upcoming reshuffle risks making his next cabinet seem much like the last.
But firing her also comes with risks. At the moment she is soaking up a lot of the criticism over the state of the ecomomy.
Without her, would the PM be even more inthe firing line than he is now?
Watch: Kemi Badenoch accuses Starmer of being reduced to ‘begging MPs to save his own skin’
12:19 , Daniel HaygarthStarmer fails to rule out sacking Reeves at reshuffle
12:18 , Millie CookeSir Keir Starmer has failed to rule out sacking the chancellor at a reshuffle after the local elections, with Kemi Badenoch claiming: “It sounds like she’s toast”.
Addressing the prime minister at PMQs, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said: “The chancellor is briefing out rent controls to curry favour - curry favour with left wing backbenchers.
"This is not a serious way to run the economy, it is time the prime minister gives her an easier job.
“Will he listen to businesses, listen to the country and reshuffle the chancellor?”
Responding, Sir Keir said: "Mr Speaker at the spring statement, the chancellor was very proud to say inflation was down to 3 per cent and falling, six interest rates cut, we’ve seen the growth figures for the early part of this year. and she says, well the cost of borrowing has gone up, yes because theres a conflict in Iran”.
But Mrs Badenoch pointed out that he failed to guarantee Ms Reeves’ survival. She said: “I didn't hear him say he’s not reshuffling the chancellor. It sounds like she’s toast.”
Analysis: Weakened Starmer forced to defend welfare as he is mocked for ‘not being in control’
12:18 , David MaddoxKemi Badenoch, the Tory leader, had Keir Starmer on the ropes with “begging Labour MPs to save his skin” but pivoted to the economy.
While it may seem like an odd tactic it forced Sir Keir to defend the out of control welfare Budget which is now costing more than income tax receipts to the Treasuy.
It highlights how weakened the prime minister is because it is a reminder that his authority began to evaporate when he could not fight a welfare rebellion last year.
He was forced to defend the size of the bill because that is what his MNPs behind him want and he cannot change direction.
It was all a build up to the punch line at the end of her six questions of “this is not a man who is in control”, mocking the chaos in his government.
Badenoch targets Labour’s welfare record
12:09 , Athena StavrouKemi Badenoch has kicked off PMQs targeting the prime minister’s record on welfare.
After weeks of further Peter Mandelson drama, the leader of the opposition challenged Sir Keir Starmer on a more policy-focused topic.
Claiming the “only thing that’s grown” since the prime minister took office is the welfare bill, she asked: “How many more people are out of work an on universal credit than when he took office?”
Starmer opened by speaking about King's US visit
12:07 , Dan HaygarthSir Keir Starmer opened Prime Minister’s Questions by telling the Commons: “The state visit by His Majesty the King is a powerful reminder of the deep and special relationship we have with the United States.”
PM reduced to 'beggin' his MPs 'to save his skin', Badenoch says
12:05 , Dan HaygarthKemi Badenoch begins by taking aim at the prime minister, who yesterday dodged an inquiry into claims he misled Parliament over the Peter Mandelson vetting saga.
By 112 votes, 335 to 223, Labour used its parliamentary majority on Tuesday to block a “sleaze” inquiry by the powerful Commons Privileges Committee into whether the prime minister misled parliament about the appointment of Lord Mandelson as ambassador to Washington.
The Tory leader said the prime minister has been “reduced” to calling on his own MPs to “save his skin.”
PMQs begins
12:03 , Dan HaygarthThe prime minister is taking questions from MPs.
Emily Thornberry among those with questions for Starmer today
11:55 , Dan HaygarthDame Emily Thornberry is chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee chairwoman, which has heard evidence relating to the Mandelson vetting saga this week.
‘Young people should be represented by someone their own age’: Meet the youngsters vying for local council seats
11:45 , Dan HaygarthYoung people lacking representation in local government are fighting to be recognised.
Harriette Boucher spoke to young candidates running in the May elections about why their voices are needed in politics.
Read the feature below:
Meet the twentysomethings vying for council seats at the local elections
Starmer heads from Downing Street to PMQs
11:34 , Dan Haygarth
Parliament to prorogue on Wednesday following Prime Minister’s Questions
11:31 , Dan HaygarthParliament will prorogue on Wednesday, the Lords chief whip has confirmed, after remaining draft laws were agreed by both Houses.
The Government had reportedly hoped to prorogue before Wednesday to avoid another Prime Minister’s Questions in this parliamentary session.
However, with prorogation set for 1.15pm, the weekly back-and-forth between Sir Keir Starmer and Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch will go ahead.
Prorogation marks the end of a parliamentary session and places a deadline on the Government’s legislative agenda, with any Bills needing to be rubber stamped beforehand to be placed on the statute book.
The Hillsborough law and the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill are among the unfinished legislation which will continue to progress in the next session, after the Commons agreed carry-over motions this week.
Full story: Housing secretary rules out rent freeze amid Iran war – despite chancellor’s hints at helping tenants
11:07 , Dan HaygarthHousing Secretary Steve Reed has unequivocally dismissed the prospect of introducing rent controls, despite recent hints from Rachel Reeves that help could be on the way for tenants.
Mr Reed said that he is “crystal clear” the government is “not doing” a rent freeze for private tenants.
His firm rejection follows reports that the chancellor had declined to rule out the measure on Tuesday.
Read more:
No punishment so far for rebel Labour MPs
10:49 , David MaddoxQuestions are being asked over whether Keir Starmer has lost his authority after 15 Labour MPs who rebelled on Tuesday night were not suspended from the parliamentary party.
The MPs mostly from the leftwing Socialist Campaign Group voted in favour of Sir Keir to be investigated by the Privileges Committee over allegations he misled Parliament.
This was despite a three line whip ordering MPs to back the PM.
But one rebel told The Independent: "We haven’t been contacted. My guess is they may just want to move on."
They added: "I think it would elongate a damaging story / focus for them and 'Starmer punishes MPs for saying he should answer questions' isn’t a good look for a man who says he has nothing to hide."
However, it has been noted that with previous rebellions on two child benefits and welfare reform Sir Keir has moved swiftly to suspend rebels from the parliamentary party.
Analysis: Starmer survives crucial vote – but at a cost to his MPs and parliament
10:39 , Dan HaygarthPolitical editor David Maddox explains that while the prime minister may have escaped a sleaze inquiry, the impact of what happened in the Commons on Tuesday will be felt for a long time to come.
Read below.
Starmer survives crucial vote – but at a cost to his MPs and parliament
Housing Secretary rules out rent freeze after Reeves’s hint
09:36 , Dan HaygarthSteve Reed has ruled out introducing rent controls after Rachel Reeves appeared to hint at help for tenants to ease the cost of living,
The housing secretary said he is “crystal clear” the Government is “not doing” a freeze for private tenants, despite the Chancellor declining to reject the idea on Tuesday.
He rejected suggestions the Government had been ambiguous about its stance on the prospect of rent controls to avoid losing voters to the Greens, who have made the measure a flagship policy.
Asked whether Ms Reeves had left the door open to a freeze as part of a ploy to dampen the threat from Zack Polanski’s party in the May elections, Mr Reed told Times Radio: “No. I think I’ve just been crystal clear, we’re not doing it.”
The Guardian reported earlier this week that the Chancellor was considering a one-year freeze to help ease the cost-of-living burden caused by the Iran war.
Asked to “examine the case for a fixed-term rent freeze” by Labour MP Yuan Yang in the Commons, Ms Reeves said on Tuesday: “This Government have already taken action to reduce the cost of living and to bear down on inflation with the changes around energy prices, around fuel duty, prescription charges and rail fares.
“I will do everything in my power and use every lever we have to bear down on the cost of living, including for people in the private rented sector.”
Asked about his Cabinet colleague’s remarks, Mr Reed said: “You’d need to ask her about the particular language she may have used but she was probably referring, I would guess, without having been there, to the fact that we’re changing the law to give renters additional rights… the biggest increase in rights for renters in a generation.”
Full story: Starmer’s premiership ‘on the ropes’, says US ambassador in leaked recording
09:06 , Dan HaygarthBritain’s ambassador to Washington said Sir Keir Starmer was “on the ropes” amid the fallout over the appointment of Peter Mandelson and suggested Labour could “remove” him after next month’s local elections, according to reports.
In what will be seen as highly outspoken comments for a career diplomat, a leaked recording released as King Charles visits the US appears to show Sir Christian Turner saying that Lord Peter Mandelson and “potentially the prime minister” had been “brought down” by the affair.
Sir Christian, who replaced Lord Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to the US after the latter was sacked over his links to paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, also criticised America’s political system, saying it was “extraordinary” that the scandal “hasn’t touched anybody” on the other side of the Atlantic.
He also said that America’s only “special relationship” – which has been under significant strain for months – was with “probably Israel”, not the UK.
Read more:
Starmer’s premiership ‘on the ropes’, says US ambassador in leaked recording
Editorial: One more time, Mr McSweeney comes to Sir Keir Starmer’s aid
08:31 , Dan HaygarthParliament can sometimes be an illuminating place. The latest testimony on the Mandelson scandal to the Commons Foreign Affairs Committee has revealed that the legendary figure of Morgan McSweeney – the man credited by Sir Keir Starmer with rebuilding the Labour Party, and who, mostly unseen and unheard, was assumed to be a cross between Stalin’s sinister KGB henchman Lavrentiy Beria and the wildman Begbie in Trainspotting – is, in fact, a mild-mannered, soft-spoken and thoughtful individual.
It had been supposed that it was the prime minister’s former chief of staff who had pushed for his old comrade Peter Mandelson to be made ambassador to Washington at all costs. It turns out, in the McSweeney version, that not only was Lord Mandelson not his “mentor”, but a mere adviser, and that he too had been betrayed by him, not told the truth about the Epstein connection, and taken for a fool. He took responsibility for the blunder and resigned, but he was also careful enough to make clear that it was, of course, the prime minister’s decision to give him the job… Et tu, McSweeney?
Continue reading:
What to expect from PMQs
08:11 , Dan HaygarthWednesday’s Prime Minister’s Questions will be the last before Parliament is suspended, or “prorogued”, ahead of the start of a new session on May 13.
The weekly grilling is likely to see Sir Keir face further questions from the Conservatives about Lord Peter Mandelson, following a day when Labour MPs were whipped to oppose a Tory motion calling for the prime minister to be investigated over his insistence that due process was followed in the peer’s appointment as ambassador to the US.
The motion from Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch would have seen Sir Keir referred to the Commons Privileges Committee in an echo of the process that eventually ended Boris Johnson’s political career.
Mrs Badenoch has accused the Prime Minister of misleading the Commons when he claimed due process was followed and no pressure was exerted to grant Lord Mandelson security clearance against official advice.
But despite a rebellion by 15 backbenchers, Labour MPs voted decisively against launching an investigation by a majority of 112 – slightly less than the Government’s working majority of 165.
Following the vote, Mrs Badenoch accused Labour MPs of being complicit in a “cover-up”, saying they would “rue the day” they voted against an inquiry.
Housing secretary dismisses claims that Labour MPs will be accused of cover up
08:05 , Millie CookeHousing secretary Steve Reed has dismissed suggestions that Labour colleagues will be accused of a cover-up over the Lord Mandelson vetting row, after defeating a bid to launch an inquiry into claims the prime minister misled Parliament over the scandal.
Asked whether he was bothered by a claim from the back benches that the party would face smears about a “cover-up” if MPs were whipped to reject a call for a parliamentary investigation into Sir Keir Starmer’s remarks to Parliament, Mr Reed told Times Radio: “No, because there’s more scrutiny on this issue than almost any issue I can think of.”
Asked whether the 15 Labour MPs who voted in favour of the Commons motion on Tuesday would lose the whip, he said: “There was a handful of usual suspects who did what they tend to do. I’m not in charge of discipline, I’m not too bothered about them to be honest.”
Housing secretary refuses to say whether rebel Labour MPs will lose whip
07:54 , Millie Cooke
Labour backbenchers who “don’t play the team game with the rest of us” are “not going to distract” the government, the housing secretary has insisted, refusing to say whether MPs who rebelled in Tuesday’s Commons vote would lose the whip, or whether he would support that move.
Steve Reed told Sky News: “You’ve got a handful of usual suspects that will repeatedly vote against the Government. They’re not going to distract us.
“You know, we’ve got the renters’ rights reforms coming in this Friday, which gives renters, people who rent their home, the biggest increase in protections and rights that we’ve had for a generation.
“That is what voters want us to focus on, not a handful of people that go off and don’t play the team game with the rest of us.
Ninety-nine percent of us are united with the Prime Minister so that we can focus on the issues that matter.”
Analysis: Starmer's attempt to coax Rayner back to Cabinet is a last ditch attempt to save himself
07:51 , Millie CookeSir Keir Starmer has reportedly offered Rayner a spot back in the Cabinet as part of a planned reshuffle following what is expected to be a disastrous set of results at the local elections.
What might previously have been seen as a gamble (the former deputy PM was, for a while, seen as somewhat of a liability as a result of her chequered tax affairs) is now a last ditch attempt to save himself at a time of maximum peril for the beleaguered prime minister.
Rayner is widely perceived to be one of the main options to replace Starmer, alongside Wes Streeting (and maybe even Ed Miliband). She is deeply respected within Labour, especially among the left wing MPs who are such a thorn in Starmer’s side. If the PM could persuade his former deputy to return to Cabinet, not only could it shore up his position with the left, it would also signal a vote of confidence and loyalty to Starmer’s ailing government from Rayner.
But it will be hard to persuade her to return to what is widely seen to be a sinking ship. And even if he does manage it, the ship may continue to sink anyway.
Watch: MP questions if No.10 ignored The Independent report on Peter Mandelson
07:00 , Rebecca WhittakerRecap: Who were the 15 Labour MPs who voted for the motion ?
06:00 , Becky WhittakerThere were 15 Labour MPs who went against the three-line whip and voted to subject the PM to an investigation by the Privileges Committee.
Emma Lewell, MP for South Shields, was among the MPs to disobey orders to reject the motion to refer Sir Keir to the Privileges Committee.
She was joined in the aye lobby by her party colleagues Kate Osborne (Jarrow and Gateshead East), Cat Smith (Lancaster and Wyre), Luke Myer (Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland), Grahame Morris (Easington), and Mary Kelly Foy (City of Durham).
However, Ms Smith also voted against the motion, which could indicate a formal abstention.
Apsana Begum (Poplar and Limehouse), Richard Burgon (Leeds East), Ian Byrne (Liverpool West Derby), Imran Hussain (Bradford East), Brian Leishman (Alloa and Grangemouth), Rebecca Long Bailey (Salford), Andy McDonald (Middlesbrough and Thornby East), John McDonnell (Hayes and Harlington), and Nadia Whittome (Nottingham East) voted in support of the motion.
Karl Turner (Kingston upon Hull East), who recently lost the Labour whip, also voted in favour of the motion.
Overall MPs voted 335-223 against the motion, meaning the government won by a majority of 112.
'Labour MPs will rue the day that they voted against this motion,' Badenoch says
05:00 , Rebecca WhittakerLabour MPs will “rue the day” they voted against referring Sir Keir Starmer to the Privileges Committee, Kemi Badenoch has said.
The Conservative leader said: “To save his own skin, Keir Starmer threatened his MPs with the loss of their jobs unless they helped cover up his misleading statements to Parliament. It is a disgrace that 333 Labour MPs chose to be complicit in that cover up.
“It is very notable that the Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister would not repeat his boss’s claim that there “was no pressure whatsoever” from No 10 on the appointment of Peter Mandelson.
“This is a government coming apart at the seams. They are more interested in their own survival than the cost of living crisis affecting hardworking families.
“Labour MPs will rue the day that they voted against this motion, because it is the day that people saw they believe there’s one rule for Labour and another for everyone else.”
Watch: Starmer sees off Tory calls for inquiry into Mandelson affair
04:00 , Rebecca WhittakerConservatives accused of a 'desperate political stunt'
03:00 , Rebecca WhittakerDowning Street accused the Conservatives of resorting to a “desperate political stunt” after MPs rejected a bid to launch an inquiry into whether Sir Keir Starmer misled the Commons over the appointment of Lord Peter Mandelson.
A Number 10 spokesperson said: “This Labour Government is delivering for Britain including bringing down energy bills, cutting hospital waiting lists and lifting half a million children out of poverty.
“The Conservative Party resorted to this desperate political stunt the week before the May elections because they have no answers on the cost of living or the NHS.
“We will continue to engage with the two parliamentary processes that are running on Peter Mandelson’s appointment with full transparency.”
Recap: Parliamentary committee finishes going through Mandelson files
02:00 , Rebecca WhittakerParliament’s Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) has finished reviewing the Government’s proposed redactions to documents relating to Lord Peter Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador ahead of publication.
In a statement, committee chairman Lord Beamish said the ISC had “now reviewed all documents which the Government has referred to it, including those provided to it just 24 hours ago, and reached a decision on the redactions which the Government had requested on the basis that it deemed the information was prejudicial to UK national security or international relations”.
He added that some documents had not yet been provided “because they are subject to the ongoing investigation by the Metropolitan Police” into allegations against Lord Mandelson of misconduct in public office.
Lord Beamish said the Government could still contest any decision on redactions, which would be dealt with at a committee hearing after the state opening of Parliament next month.
He added: “There will be no further process and Government must then publish the documents as directed by the committee.
“The Committee will continue to keep Parliament informed of its work to discharge the responsibilities given to it by Parliament under the Humble Address.
“The Committee has made exceptional efforts to ensure that it is not holding up the publication of documents and we wish to make very clear that any delay in Government responding to the Humble Address is in no way due to the Committee’s part in the process.”
Starmer escapes sleaze inquiry after ex-top aide takes blame for Mandelson vetting scandal
01:00 , Rebecca WhittakerSir Keir Starmer is in the clear over the Peter Mandelson vetting scandal after his former political aide took the blame for his appointment on another turbulent day in parliament.
By a majority of 112 votes, 335 to 223, Labour used its majority to block a “sleaze” inquiry by the powerful Commons Privileges Committee into whether the prime minister misled parliament. It means Sir Keir appears to be over the worst of a scandal that has rocked the foundations of his premiership.
Read more here:
Starmer in the clear after former aide takes blame for Mandelson vetting scandal
Editorial: One more time, Mr McSweeney comes to Sir Keir Starmer’s aid
Wednesday 29 April 2026 00:00 , Rebecca WhittakerAs the evidence given by the former Downing Street chief of staff makes clear, the way the prime minister has treated parliament throughout the Mandelson saga is one of the few things that has gone right with it. Sir Keir has no case to answer.
Read more here:
Watch: King Charles hails 'irreplaceable and unbreakable' bond between US and UK
Tuesday 28 April 2026 23:00 , Rebecca WhittakerKing acknowledged victims of sexual abuse in the wake of the Jeffrey Epstein scandal
Tuesday 28 April 2026 22:30 , Becky WhittakerThe King has acknowledged victims of sexual abuse in the wake of the Jeffrey Epstein scandal highlighting in a speech to Congress the “collective strength” of the UK and US to support survivors.
“In both of our countries, it is the very fact of our vibrant, diverse and free societies that gives us our collective strength, including to support victims of some of the ills that, so tragically, exist in both our societies today,” King Charles said in the historic address to a joint session of the US Congress this afternoon.
There have been repeated calls by the family of Virginia Giuffre, a victim of convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, for a meeting with the King and Queen, but sources have previously said the couple will not meet them.
The legal implications of Charles and Camilla coming into contact with any survivors of paedophile financier Epstein, and the King’s constitutional position, make a meeting impossible while there are ongoing UK police investigations into matters related to Epstein.
Starmer’s premiership ‘on the ropes’, says US ambassador in leaked recording
Tuesday 28 April 2026 22:00 , Rebecca WhittakerBritain’s ambassador to Washington said Sir Keir Starmer was “on the ropes” amid the fallout over the appointment of Peter Mandelson and suggested Labour could “remove” him after next month’s local elections, according to reports.
In what will be seen as highly outspoken comments for a career diplomat, a leaked recording released as King Charles visits the US appears to show Sir Christian Turner saying that Lord Peter Mandelson and “potentially the prime minister” had been “brought down” by the affair.
Read more here by Kate Devlin The Independent’s Whitehall Editor:
Starmer’s premiership ‘on the ropes’, says US ambassador in leaked recording
Recap: Who were the 15 Labour MPs who voted for the motion
Tuesday 28 April 2026 21:30 , Rebecca WhittakerThere were 15 Labour MPs who went against the three-line whip and voted to subject the PM to an investigation by the Privileges Committee.
Emma Lewell, MP for South Shields, was among the MPs to disobey orders to reject the motion to refer Sir Keir to the Privileges Committee.
She was joined in the aye lobby by her party colleagues Kate Osborne (Jarrow and Gateshead East), Cat Smith (Lancaster and Wyre), Luke Myer (Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland), Grahame Morris (Easington), and Mary Kelly Foy (City of Durham).
However, Ms Smith also voted against the motion, which could indicate a formal abstention.
Apsana Begum (Poplar and Limehouse), Richard Burgon (Leeds East), Ian Byrne (Liverpool West Derby), Imran Hussain (Bradford East), Brian Leishman (Alloa and Grangemouth), Rebecca Long Bailey (Salford), Andy McDonald (Middlesbrough and Thornby East), John McDonnell (Hayes and Harlington), and Nadia Whittome (Nottingham East) voted in support of the motion.
Karl Turner (Kingston upon Hull East), who recently lost the Labour whip, also voted in favour of the motion.
Overall MPs voted 335-223 against the motion, meaning the government won by a majority of 112.
The King defends NATO and Royal Navy
Tuesday 28 April 2026 21:00 , Rebecca WhittakerThe King has issued an appeal to Donald Trump to end the war in Iran as he attempted to heal the rift between the US president and Sir Keir Starmer.
King Charles III referred to his “immense pride” at serving in the Royal Navy and stressed the importance of the UK- US alliance as well as NATO in the historic address to a joint session of the US Congress this afternoon.
The monarch said: “The challenges we face are too great for any one Nation to bear alone.
“But in this unpredictable environment, our Alliance cannot rest on past achievements, or assume that foundational principles simply endure. Renewal today starts with security.”
He added: “From the depths of the Atlantic to the disastrously melting ice-caps of the Arctic, the commitment and expertise of the United States Armed Forces and its allies lie at the heart of NATO, pledged to each other’s defence, protecting our citizens and interests, keeping North Americans and Europeans safe from our common adversaries,” the King said.
Watch: Starmer sees off Tory calls for inquiry into Mandelson affair
Tuesday 28 April 2026 20:40 , Rebecca WhittakerRecap: Parliamentary committee finishes going through Mandelson files
Tuesday 28 April 2026 20:20 , Rebecca WhittakerParliament’s Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) has finished reviewing the Government’s proposed redactions to documents relating to Lord Peter Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador ahead of publication.
In a statement, committee chairman Lord Beamish said the ISC had “now reviewed all documents which the Government has referred to it, including those provided to it just 24 hours ago, and reached a decision on the redactions which the Government had requested on the basis that it deemed the information was prejudicial to UK national security or international relations”.
He added that some documents had not yet been provided “because they are subject to the ongoing investigation by the Metropolitan Police” into allegations against Lord Mandelson of misconduct in public office.
Lord Beamish said the Government could still contest any decision on redactions, which would be dealt with at a committee hearing after the state opening of Parliament next month.
He added: “There will be no further process and Government must then publish the documents as directed by the committee.
“The Committee will continue to keep Parliament informed of its work to discharge the responsibilities given to it by Parliament under the Humble Address.
“The Committee has made exceptional efforts to ensure that it is not holding up the publication of documents and we wish to make very clear that any delay in Government responding to the Humble Address is in no way due to the Committee’s part in the process.”
Watch: Starmer survives another day as former aide takes blame for Mandelson vetting scandal
Tuesday 28 April 2026 20:00 , Rebecca Whittaker'Labour MPs will rue the day that they voted against this motion,' Badenoch says
Tuesday 28 April 2026 19:45 , Rebecca WhittakerLabour MPs will “rue the day” they voted against referring Sir Keir Starmer to the Privileges Committee, Kemi Badenoch has said.
The Conservative leader said: “To save his own skin, Keir Starmer threatened his MPs with the loss of their jobs unless they helped cover up his misleading statements to Parliament. It is a disgrace that 333 Labour MPs chose to be complicit in that cover up.
“It is very notable that the Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister would not repeat his boss’s claim that there “was no pressure whatsoever” from No 10 on the appointment of Peter Mandelson.
“This is a government coming apart at the seams. They are more interested in their own survival than the cost of living crisis affecting hardworking families.
“Labour MPs will rue the day that they voted against this motion, because it is the day that people saw they believe there’s one rule for Labour and another for everyone else.”
MP says it was 'wrong' to order backbenchers to oppose the investigation
Tuesday 28 April 2026 19:30 , Rebecca WhittakerA Labour MP has said it was “wrong” to order backbenchers to oppose an attempt to launch an investigation into Sir Keir Starmer over the appointment of Lord Peter Mandelson.
Emma Lewell argued the Government’s handling of the privileges motion suggests to the public there is something to hide, and she “can’t understand” why the Prime Minister would not agree to it.
Ms Lewell was joined by a series of Labour colleagues in saying they believed Sir Keir should report himself to the Privileges Committee.
Ministers dismissed the move brought forward by opposition parties as a “political stunt” ahead of May’s elections.
Conservatives accused of a 'desperate political stunt'
Tuesday 28 April 2026 19:15 , Rebecca WhittakerDowning Street accused the Conservatives of resorting to a “desperate political stunt” after MPs rejected a bid to launch an inquiry into whether Sir Keir Starmer misled the Commons over the appointment of Lord Peter Mandelson.
A Number 10 spokesperson said: “This Labour Government is delivering for Britain including bringing down energy bills, cutting hospital waiting lists and lifting half a million children out of poverty.
“The Conservative Party resorted to this desperate political stunt the week before the May elections because they have no answers on the cost of living or the NHS.
“We will continue to engage with the two parliamentary processes that are running on Peter Mandelson’s appointment with full transparency.”
The 15 Labour MPs who voted for the motion
Tuesday 28 April 2026 19:05 , Becky WhittakerThere were 15 Labour MPs who went against the three-line whip and voted to subject the PM to an investigation by the Privileges Committee.
Emma Lewell, MP for South Shields, was among the MPs to disobey orders to reject the motion to refer Sir Keir to the Privileges Committee.
She was joined in the aye lobby by her party colleagues Kate Osborne (Jarrow and Gateshead East), Cat Smith (Lancaster and Wyre), Luke Myer (Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland), Grahame Morris (Easington), and Mary Kelly Foy (City of Durham).
However, Ms Smith also voted against the motion, which could indicate a formal abstention.
Apsana Begum (Poplar and Limehouse), Richard Burgon (Leeds East), Ian Byrne (Liverpool West Derby), Imran Hussain (Bradford East), Brian Leishman (Alloa and Grangemouth), Rebecca Long Bailey (Salford), Andy McDonald (Middlesbrough and Thornby East), John McDonnell (Hayes and Harlington), and Nadia Whittome (Nottingham East) voted in support of the motion.
Karl Turner (Kingston upon Hull East), who recently lost the Labour whip, also voted in favour of the motion.
Overall MPs voted 335-223 against the motion, meaning the government won by a majority of 112.
Watch: Starmer sees off Tory calls for inquiry into Mandelson affair
Tuesday 28 April 2026 19:00 , Rebecca WhittakerLiberal Democrat Leader said Starmer was 'cowardly' for ducking Privileges Committee investigation
Tuesday 28 April 2026 18:50 , Rebecca WhittakerSir Ed Davey called the Prime Minister “cowardly” after he ordered Labour MPs to vote against referring him to the Privileges Committee.
Responding to the Privileges Committee vote, the Liberal Democrat Leader said: “Starmer has ducked the scrutiny he should have faced by forcing Labour MPs to defend him. What a cowardly way to govern.
“If he truly felt his conduct over the Mandelson scandal was up to scratch he should have undergone investigation by the Privileges Committee.
“The Liberal Democrats will always stand up for decency and honesty in politics – unlike this Prime Minister.”
Shouting 'shame' during a vote 'will not be tolerated', Commons speaker says
Tuesday 28 April 2026 18:45 , Rebecca WhittakerMPs voting on whether to refer Sir Keir Starmer to the Privileges Committee were heckled as they did so, Commons speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle said.
Speaking after giving the voting figures, Sir Lindsay said: “Can I just say, a member of Parliament has been to complain to me, and another member.
“When other members are shouting ‘shame’ when they’re voting, it is not acceptable and it will not be tolerated.”
He urged those responsible to apologise to those they had shouted at.
Downing Street reacts to vote blocking inquiry into Starmer
Tuesday 28 April 2026 18:39 , Rebecca WhittakerThe Independent’s Political Editor David Maddox reports:
A No10 spokesperson said: “This Labour government is delivering for Britain including bringing down energy bills, cutting hospital waiting lists and lifting half a million children out of poverty.
“The Conservative Party resorted to this desperate political stunt the week before the May elections because they have no answers on the cost of living or the NHS.
“We will continue to engage with the two parliamentary processes that are running on Peter Mandelson’s appointment with full transparency.”
Starmer gets through parliament vote to block inquiry
Tuesday 28 April 2026 18:36 , Rebecca WhittakerThe Independent’s Political Editor David Maddox reports:
Labour has used its massive majority to vote down the motion for an inquiry by the Privileges Committee into whether Keir Starmer misled parliament.
Sir Keir escaped an inquiry with a vote of 335 to 223 against the motion.
But a number of Labour MPs abstained and voted with Opposition parties to support an inquiry.
Sir Keir took the unusual step of ordering a three line whip to force Labour MPs to support the prime minister and avoid an investigation.
Starmer survives crucial vote – but at a cost to his MPs and parliament
Tuesday 28 April 2026 18:35 , Rebecca WhittakerStarmer survives crucial vote – but at a cost to his MPs and parliament
Watch: MP questions if No.10 ignored The Independent report on Peter Mandelson
Tuesday 28 April 2026 18:30 , Rebecca WhittakerMPs have rejected the motion
Tuesday 28 April 2026 18:30 , Rebecca WhittakerMPs have rejected a motion calling for an inquiry over claims Sir Keir Starmer misled the House over the appointment of Lord Peter Mandelson as US ambassador.
MPs voted 335-223 against the motion, meaning the government won by a majority of 112.
Darren Jones refuses to answer why Government would not whip its MPs to vote against Starmer
Tuesday 28 April 2026 18:25 , Rebecca WhittakerThe Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister, Darren Jones, refused to say whether the Government would not whip its MPs to vote against referring Sir Keir Starmer to the Privileges Committee over his comments in the Commons on the appointment of Lord Peter Mandelson.
Mr Jones was asked by Independent MP Ayoub Khan (Birmingham Perry Barr) whether given his confidence, the minister would “support the withdrawal of the whip against backbenchers”.
“I’m not going to answer silly questions,” Mr Jones replied.
He defended the Prime Minister and said the whole Government “recognises the need for transparency”. He said evidence from Catherine Little, Sir Chris Wormald and Sir Olly had all showed that due process had been followed.
Mr Jones added: “In recent weeks some have accused the Prime Minister of dishonesty, saying there was no way that Foreign Office officials would have given Peter Mandelson clearance against the vetting agency’s recommendation, let alone without checking with the Prime Minister.
He said: “The testimony provided by Sir Olly Robbins has disproved those accusations without any question. So rather than focus on the issues affecting our constituents and the country, what do the opposition benches do? They try to shift the goal posts, and have tried again and again to make their arguments fit.
“Today alone we have heard members of the opposition bounce from one accusation to another in a desperate search for something that will stick, and we have been subjected to the ranting incoherence of the leadership of the opposition.”
Listen to In The Room, The Independent's politics podcast
Tuesday 28 April 2026 12:33 , Dan HaygarthTwo former Westminster insiders reveal how politics and power really work.
Ever wondered what goes on behind closed doors at No 10? Or who’s the first person on the phone when a prime minister lands themselves in hot water?
Each week former deputy cabinet secretary Helen MacNamara and Cleo Watson, former political advisor to Theresa May and Boris Johnson, dissect the week’s biggest news, revealing how decisions get made, why they go wrong, and what should happen next.
In The Room is straight-talking, insider analysis with a dose of humour, every Friday.
Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
