Keir Starmer to face first PMQs since Mandelson arrest

Keir Starmer will face questions from MPs in the Commons for the first time since the arrest of Peter Mandelson.

The former ambassador to Washington was arrested on Monday on suspicion of misconduct in public office and later released on bail.

Mandelson, who has been accused of passing sensitive information to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein during his time as business secretary, has been bailed until May.

The Prime Minister has faced considerable criticism over his decision to appoint Mandelson to the position despite his links to Epstein, with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar calling for him to resign.

Starmer had admitted to knowing about Mandelson’s ongoing friendship with Epstein, but said the peer “lied repeatedly” about the extent of the relationship when questioned on it.

The Prime Minister has agreed to release all the documents relating to the appointment.

A cabinet minister has said plans to release the documents will still go ahead despite his arrest on Monday.

Starmer will face Prime Minister’s Questions from midday.