Politics·4/20/2026AI summary Starmer finds an enemy in Olly Robbins but refuses to admit misleading Parliament over Mandelson appointment
Keir Starmer has faced mounting criticism after refusing to admit misleading Parliament over his appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador, despite Mandelson failing vetting. The Prime Minister instead blamed officials, the vetting system and Mandelson's lack of candour, prosecuting former Foreign Office chief Olly Robbins with 'vigour of his former life at the bar'. Senior MPs describe Starmer as having 'chronic good guy syndrome' making it hard to admit failings. The controversy has intensified speculation about a leadership challenge, with odds now rated 7/10 post-May, though MPs say now is not the right time to oust him.