A massive tranche of nearly 1,500 pages of government documents related to Peter Mandelson's role as UK ambassador to the US has been released, revealing new insights into his views and actions. Downing Street has described it as the most extensive release ever in response to a Commons motion.
Key Revelations from the Documents
1. Mandelson Did Not Fully Cooperate
Despite a broad humble address motion, some information is missing. On 31 March, a government official asked Mandelson, via his solicitors, to provide any information held on his personal phone. Mandelson declined to comply, and the government had no further recourse to search his personal devices.
2. Lack of Faith in Starmer's Government
Mandelson's WhatsApp chats with Pat McFadden reveal his low opinion of Starmer's leadership. He described Downing Street as "beleaguered and bereft" after a visit in July 2025 and said Starmer "lacks verve, as does the cabinet as a whole." McFadden also expressed critical views, complaining about Labour MPs focusing on taxing to pay benefits.
3. Mandelson Told Lammy He Wouldn't Regret Appointment
A handwritten note from Mandelson to then-Foreign Secretary David Lammy in November 2024 expressed hope that media speculation hadn't been "too irritating" and assured Lammy that if appointed, he would make sure Lammy never regretted it.
4. Rude Comments About Wes Streeting
In July 2025, after Streeting expressed alarm about Israel's actions in Gaza, Mandelson described his message as "wild long hysterical" and said it reflected badly on his maturity. Days later, after Streeting lobbied for more action on Gaza, Mandelson told McFadden: "I think Wes is experiencing an early mid-life crisis." McFadden did not reply.
5. Mandelson Advised Starmer on Meeting John Major
Messages between Mandelson and Starmer were brief and formal. In late June 2024, Mandelson shared doorstep feedback from Bury. After the election, he suggested Starmer meet former PM John Major, adding: "Just a thought. No need to reply." Starmer did not reply.
6. Many Ministers Congratulated Mandelson
Despite controversy, many government figures sent congratulatory messages. 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 lobby for the role of chancellor of the University of Oxford. He messaged numerous alumni, including Ed Miliband, who sent automated replies. He even checked with Streeting for the correct number for MP Keir Mather, who did not reply.
8. Trump's Red Box Caused Frustration
One saga involved manufacturing a red box for President Trump, similar to UK ministerial boxes, with "President of the United States" in gold. Despite consensus, production delays infuriated Mandelson. He wrote to Morgan McSweeney: "Whitehall has known about since February and it was confirmed in early July and nobody had the wit to say anything. What incompetence." Another message said: "This is like something out of Thick of It ... I have gone tonto on this."
