Intelligence Committee Accuses Starmer Government of Mandelson Files Cover-Up

The Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) has sensationally accused the Sir Keir Starmer government of covering up the latest tranche of the “Mandelson Files,” citing overly broad redactions and the withholding of key documents. A statement from the ISC, later withdrawn, also revealed that government policy is being formulated through “lengthy WhatsApp conversations” between ministers and senior officials.

“Far Too Broad” Redactions and Withheld Documents

The Intelligence and Security Committee published a damning statement earlier today, accusing the Labour government of applying redactions to the Mandelson Files “far too broadly,” particularly concerning personal information. The ISC noted that no independent body has been commissioned to review these redactions and assure Parliament they align with the original Humble Address, according to Guido Fawkes.

Crucially, the Committee also stated that “certain documents are being withheld from the process,” including a vetting file held by UK Security Vetting. The ISC made it clear that the terms of the Humble Address do not permit any documents to be withheld from Parliament, advising the government to seek Parliament’s agreement if it wishes to keep any information secret.

Government Business on WhatsApp

Beyond the Mandelson Files, the ISC’s statement highlighted a “gravely concerning” trend: the widespread use of unofficial systems for government business. “Lengthy Whatsapp conversations between senior officials and ministers appear now to be the format by which Government policy is formulated,” the Committee observed.

The ISC expressed disappointment that this practice, which it had raised with the previous government, has not only continued but has “spread” under the current Labour administration. This statement was later withdrawn, with Guido Fawkes speculating it followed an “internal row.”

• ISC accused the government of “far too broad” redactions on Mandelson Files.
• Key vetting documents are reportedly being withheld from Parliament.
• Government policy is being formulated via “lengthy WhatsApp conversations.”
• The ISC’s damning statement was later withdrawn.
• The second tranche of files, promised after Easter, is now delayed until next week.

What This Means for Britain

This revelation raises serious questions about transparency and accountability within the Starmer government, directly impacting the public’s right to know how decisions are made.

The use of unofficial communication channels like WhatsApp for official government business creates a shadow government, making it impossible for proper oversight and record-keeping.

For ordinary British citizens, this lack of transparency means less trust in government, as vital decisions affecting their lives are made behind closed doors, away from public scrutiny.

The delay and alleged cover-up of the Mandelson Files, particularly concerning vetting, suggest a deliberate attempt to control information that could be politically damaging.

The Conservative Party has demanded that Sir Keir Starmer “come clean with the full facts,” highlighting his past promises of transparency which appear to be broken.

This incident undermines the democratic process, as Parliament is being denied access to documents it is legally entitled to review, hindering its ability to hold the executive to account.

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This article is a factual summary of reporting by Guido Fawkes. Full original story available on their website. All quotes directly attributed.

Source: Guido Fawkes | Breaking Brexit News