Labour leader Keir Starmer has successfully fended off a parliamentary inquiry into the party’s handling of Lord Mandelson’s vetting process, but the ordeal has left deep scars.
No 10 had expended considerable political capital in keeping Labour MPs onside over the controversy, which saw several senior figures implicated in a media scandal involving a former staffer. The inquiry was seen as a last-ditch effort to restore public trust and avoid further embarrassment for the party.
However, despite his efforts, Starmer faced significant pressure from MPs who were still reeling from the fallout. Several Labour backbenchers had called for him to appear before the select committee, citing concerns over the party’s governance and accountability.
In a statement issued late last night, Starmer said he was “disappointed” that the inquiry had not gone ahead, but added that it was “good news” for the country that politicians could “focus on the real issues facing our economy and people’s lives”.
The Labour leader’s comments were seen as a veiled rebuke to his critics, who accused him of being out of touch with ordinary voters. Starmer’s response was also seen as a nod to No 10’s efforts to keep the party in line.
While Starmer has emerged from this ordeal unscathed, several Labour MPs are still reeling from the controversy. Some have vowed to press on with their demands for greater transparency and accountability within the party, while others have retreated back into their constituencies, hoping to avoid further scrutiny.
One senior Labour MP, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “Keir’s managed to sidestep this one, but it’s not the end of the matter. We need to see real change in our party if we’re going to restore public trust.”
Others have been more charitable towards Starmer, saying that he had done enough to address the issues raised by the inquiry. “Keir’s taken on board some tough decisions and has shown a willingness to listen to his MPs,” said one Labour backbencher. “That’s not always easy to do in politics, but I think he’s got it right this time.”
The fallout from the Mandelson controversy is far from over, however. Several high-profile Labour figures are still facing scrutiny, including former deputy leader Tom Watson and shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves.
As one Labour insider put it: “This isn’t just about Keir Starmer – it’s about where our party stands on issues like accountability and governance. We need to get that right if we’re going to compete with the Conservatives.”
For now, at least, Starmer has emerged from this ordeal with his reputation intact. But as one Labour MP wryly observed: “You can’t keep fiddling with the rules forever – sooner or later, someone’s going to challenge you.”