The newly released Mandelson files have unveiled a series of startling revelations, including Peter Mandelson's assurance that the government would 'never regret' appointing him as US Ambassador and a suggestion from officials to gift Donald Trump a ministerial 'red box'. The documents, released by the government, consist of over a thousand pages related to the controversial appointment of Lord Mandelson.
Mandelson's Assurance to Lammy
In a bid to secure the Washington post, Lord Mandelson courted then-Foreign Secretary David Lammy. He told Lammy: 'I just wanted you to know that if you were minded to appoint me I would make sure you never regret it.' Mandelson described the role as a 'huge honour' and added, 'If you are up for it, so am I.'
Security Clearance Controversy
The files reveal that UK Security Vetting (UKSV) had recommended against granting Lord Mandelson security clearance. However, top Foreign Office official Sir Olly Robbins overruled this advice without the Prime Minister's knowledge. Concerns raised by the vetting agency included Mandelson's ties with senior figures in China, Russia, and Israel.
During the vetting process, Mandelson acknowledged having a 'large number of personal acquaintances with foreign nationals' but denied any 'close contacts'. When asked to fill in a foreign contacts form, he wrote: 'I have a large number of personal acquaintances with foreign nationals but I would not describe these as current friendships or personal business connections.' The case worker insisted on further details, stating it was 'prudent that we obtain sufficient information about overseas contacts that we can be confident that any potential security risks are identified.'
WhatsApp Messages Revealed
Lord Mandelson also exchanged numerous WhatsApp messages with Labour cabinet members. Many of these messages involved the Peer seeking support for his candidacy as Chancellor of the University of Oxford. Notably, he commented on former transport secretary Louise Haigh's resignation over a historic fraud offence, calling her exit 'harsh'. In a message to her on November 29, 2024, he wrote: 'Lou, I am very sorry about this. You have been brave and loyal in your decision but it seems harsh given you were appointed in full knowledge. But you have acted in a way that enables you to come back later and everything you say and do now should be done with that in mind. Strong and honourable.'
Trump 'Red Box' Suggestion
Another eye-catching revelation in the files is a suggestion from officials that the UK gift Donald Trump a mocked-up ministerial 'red box' inscribed with 'President of the United States'. This proposal adds a curious dimension to the diplomatic considerations surrounding Mandelson's appointment.
Lord Mandelson has consistently maintained that he has not acted criminally, did not act for personal gain, and is cooperating with the police. The full implications of these revelations continue to unfold as the documents are scrutinized.
