Exeter MP calls for accountability as MPs agree Mandelson documents plan

Exeter MP Steve Race has said his “thoughts remain with the victims of Jeffrey Epstein first and foremost”, as MPs agreed a plan to release documents relating to Lord Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador.

Mr Race, speaking to Exeter Today, said Peter Mandelson “must account for his conduct” and added that he “wholeheartedly” supported the ongoing investigations and review of the information available.

His comments came as MPs approved changes to government plans over the release of documents linked to Lord Mandelson’s 2024 appointment, following anger among Labour backbenchers which forced ministers into a climbdown.

Originally, the government had intended to retain the power to block the publication of certain documents if they were judged to be “prejudicial to UK national security or international relations”.

However, after pressure from opposition MPs and some Labour members, ministers agreed that sensitive material would instead be referred to Parliament’s Intelligence and Security Committee, rather than being automatically exempt from release.

At Prime Minister’s Questions earlier, Sir Keir Starmer said the government would publish all material relating to the appointment, subject to national security and international relations considerations.

After the revised plan was agreed, the Metropolitan Police confirmed it had asked the government “not to release certain documents at this time”.

During a lengthy Commons debate, which concluded shortly before 7pm, a minister confirmed that no Mandelson-related documents would be released on Wednesday (January 4) following discussions with Scotland Yard.

Exeter Today understands there is widespread anger across the Labour Party over the handling of the issue, with the latest developments raising questions about the prime minister’s authority.

No Mandelson material will be released today.