Dame Emily Thornberry has stated that there is "most definitely blame on both sides" in the escalating dispute between Sir Keir Starmer and former Foreign Office chief Sir Olly Robbins over the vetting of Lord Mandelson. The senior Labour MP, who chairs the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, criticised Sir Olly for failing to inform the prime minister about issues with Lord Mandelson's vetting, despite having overridden them. She also condemned the government for exerting "appalling" pressure on Robbins and his predecessor, Philip Barton.
Thornberry's Remarks
Speaking during a committee hearing, Thornberry said: "There is blame on both sides here. Sir Olly Robbins should have informed the prime minister about the vetting issues, but the government also put ridiculous pressure on the Foreign Office." She described the government's decision to conduct Mandelson's vetting after the approval process as "completely wrong" and accused ministers of placing undue strain on civil servants.
Support for Starmer
Despite the controversy, Thornberry expressed support for Sir Keir Starmer, stating that he will "keep his job" amid the row. She dismissed calls for his resignation, arguing that the prime minister was not directly responsible for the vetting process. "Keir Starmer is not to blame for this mess. He has my full support," she added.
Background
The vetting scandal has dominated headlines in recent weeks, with Lord Mandelson's appointment to a senior role reportedly facing delays due to security clearance issues. Sir Olly Robbins, the former permanent secretary at the Foreign Office, has faced intense scrutiny over his handling of the matter. Labour MPs have been ramping up pressure on Starmer, with some calling for a full inquiry into the vetting process.
Thornberry's comments come as a former No 10 staffer claimed the vetting scandal is "haunting" the prime minister. The row has exposed tensions within the Labour Party and raised questions about the transparency of government appointments.
