The top civil servant who has become the fall guy for the appointment of Lord Mandelson insisted he was acting on Sir Keir Starmer’s orders.
Prime Minister wanted to make this appointment himself
Or setting up an enquiry is a good way to kick it into the longer grass and in the meantime all Ministers and MPs when asked have to say "I can't comment whilst there is an inquiry underway ...".I suspect that the fact that a speedy enquiry has already been set up under a retired judge means that Starmer knows they won't be able to pin anything specific on him.
Or setting up an enquiry is a good way to kick it into the longer grass and in the meantime all Ministers and MPs when asked have to say "I can't comment whilst there is an inquiry underway ...".
I don't hate you but in almost all cases (when you get on your soap box), there's a tangible underlying cynicism.
You dont have to disclose details of the findings. Just announce someone has passed or failed.
You understand that that supports the No10 version of events and runs contrary to everything you've argued since the news broke.You dont have to disclose details of the findings. Just announce someone has passed or failed.
Interesting on the Spectator podcast.
There is no pass or fail in vetting.
Security people presents their findings. Officials decide on appointing.
Consistent with Robbins making a decision and No10 saying the process was followed