Overview
- MPs rejected the opposition motion Tuesday by 335 to 223, blocking a probe into whether Keir Starmer misled Parliament.
- The proposed inquiry centered on his claim that proper process was followed when Peter Mandelson was made US ambassador, despite a failed security vetting.
- Officials at the Foreign Office overruled the negative check to approve the posting, a decision the government says was taken there rather than by No. 10.
- Labour’s large majority carried the vote, though Sky News reported about 15 Labour MPs defied the whip and backed the motion.
- Police are still investigating Mandelson for possible misconduct in public office, Starmer denies lying and says he was misled by Mandelson and some officials, and a former adviser has called the appointment a serious mistake ahead of 7 May local and regional elections.