Health Secretary Wes Streeting has taken the unprecedented step of sharing his private text exchanges with Lord Mandelson to Sky News, in a move aimed at countering what he describes as a smear campaign over their relationship.
Messages Reveal Election Fears and Policy Criticisms
The disclosed messages, which date from 2025, include candid admissions from Mr Streeting about his political future and the government's direction. In one exchange, he expresses deep concern about his electoral prospects, stating, "I fear we're in big trouble here - and I am toast at the next election." This remark followed the loss of a traditionally safe Labour ward in Redbridge to a Gaza independent candidate, highlighting internal party tensions over foreign policy.
Further texts reveal Mr Streeting's blunt assessment of the government's economic approach. He asserts that there is "no growth strategy at all," echoing Lord Mandelson's criticism that the administration lacks a coherent economic philosophy. These comments underscore growing unease within Labour ranks about policy direction and electoral viability.
Strong Stance on Israel and Gaza Conflict
In a particularly revealing set of messages from July 2025, Mr Streeting discusses the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in stark terms. He argues for the UK to join France in recognising Palestine, citing moral and political imperatives. "Morally, because Israel is committing war crimes before our eyes," he writes, adding that the Israeli government's actions amount to "rogue state behaviour."
He warns that failure to lead on this issue could result in significant damage to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the government, and the party, particularly with a Commons vote on recognition looming. Lord Mandelson responds with caution, expressing worries that unilateral recognition might provoke further annexation by Israel, but Mr Streeting counters that Israel is proceeding regardless.
Context of the Mandelson Controversy
Mr Streeting's decision to release these texts comes amid a deepening crisis for the Labour government, triggered by revelations about Lord Mandelson's association with convicted paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. The New Labour grandee is currently under criminal investigation for allegedly passing market-sensitive information to Epstein during his tenure as business secretary.
In his interview with Sky News, Mr Streeting vehemently denied any knowledge of the depth of Lord Mandelson's relationship with Epstein post-conviction. "I did not know about the nature of Peter Mandelson's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein after his conviction," he stated, adding that had he known, he would not have wanted Mandelson near the Labour Party or his family.
Defending His Relationship and Backing Starmer
Mr Streeting sought to downplay the closeness of his ties to Lord Mandelson, describing suggestions of an intimate friendship as exaggerated. "You would think from some of the things we've read over the weekend that I was having dinner with him every week," he remarked, explaining that their connection began through his partner, Joe Dancey, who worked for Mandelson decades ago.
Despite the turmoil, Mr Streeting firmly backed Prime Minister Keir Starmer, stating "No" when asked if Sir Keir should resign. He acknowledged it had not been the government's best week but emphasised collective responsibility, saying, "That's not just Keir Starmer, that's all of us because we're a team." He called for giving the prime minister a chance to set out a forward path.
Apologies and Political Implications
The health secretary also apologised to cabinet colleagues for the content of some messages, particularly regarding foreign policy. He revealed he had informed Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper about his comments on Palestine and Gaza, hoping it would not cause difficulties, as he considers himself a team player.
This episode highlights the ongoing challenges within the Labour Party, balancing internal critiques with public unity. Mr Streeting's transparency, driven by the belief that "sunlight is the best disinfectant," may reshape political narratives as the government navigates these turbulent waters.
