A massive tranche of government documents, described by Downing Street as the most extensive release ever in response to a Commons motion, reveals new details about Peter Mandelson's tenure as UK ambassador to the United States. The nearly 1,500 pages shed light on his views on Labour leadership, his cooperation with the process, and his interactions with key figures.
Key Revelations from the Documents
1. Mandelson Did Not Fully Cooperate
Despite a broad humble address motion requiring document handover, some information remains missing. On 31 March, a government official requested any information held on Mandelson's personal phone via his solicitors. The documents state: "Peter Mandelson declined to comply with this request. The government has no further recourse to search the personal devices of Peter Mandelson."
2. Lack of Faith in Starmer's Government
Mandelson's WhatsApp chats with Pat McFadden, a trusted Starmer minister, reveal his disdain. After a July 2025 visit to Downing Street, Mandelson described it as "beleaguered and bereft." He characterized Starmer's style as "advance/buckle/advance/buckle" and argued the PM "lacks verve, as does the cabinet as a whole." McFadden himself held uncomplimentary views, saying Labour MPs asked: "Who can we tax in order to pay benefits to others?"
3. Mandelson Assured Lammy He Would Not Regret Appointment
A handwritten note from Mandelson to then-Foreign Secretary David Lammy, dated November 2024, expresses hope that media speculation was not "too irritating" and adds: "I just wanted you to know that if you were to appoint me, I would make sure you never regret it."
4. Critical Remarks About Wes Streeting
In July 2025, after Streeting expressed alarm over Israel's actions in Gaza, Mandelson wrote to McFadden: "I received a wild long hysterical message from Wes about Israel. I pushed back. I can forward but reflects pretty badly on his maturity in my view." Days later, after Streeting lobbied for Palestinian recognition, Mandelson added: "I think Wes is experiencing an early mid-life crisis." McFadden did not reply.
5. Mandelson Suggested Starmer Meet John Major
Messages between Mandelson and Starmer were brief and formal. In late June 2024, Mandelson shared campaign insights from Bury. After the election, he suggested Starmer invite former PM John Major for a chat, adding: "Just a thought. No need to reply." Starmer did not reply.
6. Ministers Congratulated Mandelson
Despite controversy, many ministers sent fawning congratulations. Junior minister Ian Murray wrote: "Congratulations your excellency. What a wonderful appointment." Environment Secretary Steve Reed said: "Excellent appointment."
7. Mandelson Lobbied for Oxford Chancellor Role
Before his Washington appointment, Mandelson used his contacts to secure the University of Oxford chancellor role. He lobbied Ed Miliband, receiving automated replies, and checked with Streeting for Keir Mather's number, who did not reply.
8. Trump's Red Box Saga
A lengthy correspondence details efforts to manufacture a red box for President Trump, inscribed with "President of the United States," for his September 2025 state visit. By August, Mandelson fumed about delays: "Whitehall has known about since February... What incompetence." He wrote to Morgan McSweeney: "This is like something out of Thick of It... I have gone tonto on this."
