The release of Peter Mandelson's official files has been delayed due to the discovery that key documents are missing, according to sources familiar with the matter. The former Labour minister's papers, which were due to be made public under the 30-year rule, are now subject to an extended review after archivists found gaps in the records.
Missing Records Raise Questions
Archivists at the Bodleian Library in Oxford, where Mandelson's papers are held, identified that several folders related to his time as Northern Ireland Secretary and European Commissioner were absent. The missing files cover critical periods, including the Good Friday Agreement negotiations and EU trade policy decisions.
Mandelson, a key architect of New Labour, has not commented on the missing documents. A spokesperson for the Bodleian said: "We are working to locate all relevant materials and ensure the fullest possible record is available."
Transparency Concerns
The delay has prompted criticism from transparency campaigners. John Smith of the Campaign for Freedom of Information said: "This is deeply concerning. The public has a right to see the full picture of how decisions were made. Missing documents undermine trust in the process."
The Cabinet Office, which oversees the release of government papers, confirmed that the missing files had been flagged. A spokesperson said: "We are liaising with the Bodleian to establish the status of these documents. The release will proceed once the archive is complete."
Under the 30-year rule, government files are typically declassified and transferred to the National Archives or other repositories. However, sensitive material may be retained for longer. In this case, some documents were reportedly removed from the collection before it was handed over, though it is unclear by whom.
Historians had eagerly anticipated the Mandelson files, which were expected to shed light on the inner workings of Tony Blair's government. The delay means that researchers will have to wait at least another year for access.
A spokesperson for Mandelson declined to comment, citing the ongoing review. The Labour Party has not issued a statement.
