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Starmer acknowledges discussions on Doyle's diplomatic future
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer confirmed on Tuesday that conversations had taken place regarding a potential diplomatic position for his former senior aide, Matthew Doyle, who was suspended from the Labour Party in February over ties to a convicted sex offender.
Doyle denies seeking role amid controversy
Lord Doyle, who was elevated to the House of Lords after leaving Downing Street in March 2025, stated he had never pursued such a role and was unaware of any discussions between officials and the Foreign Office about securing him a position. The revelation came during testimony by Sir Olly Robbins, Starmer's former top civil servant at the Foreign Office, who was dismissed last week amid a separate dispute over Lord Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador.
PMQs exchange sharpens focus on cronyism claims
During Prime Minister's Questions, Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey and Conservative MP Mike Wood pressed Starmer on whether Downing Street had considered appointing Doyle to a diplomatic post. The prime minister responded that while discussions about future roles for departing staff were common, "nothing came of this."
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch accused Starmer of cronyism, calling the idea of Doyle's appointment "ridiculous" and demanding the prime minister's resignation. She alleged that Sir Olly Robbins had been sacked for Starmer's failures, asserting that due process was not followed in Lord Mandelson's vetting.
"The leader of the opposition claimed on Friday that Mandelson could not have been cleared against security advice. She was wrong about that. She said that ministers must have been told. She was wrong about that. She claimed that there was deliberate dishonesty, she was wrong about that. Wrong, wrong, wrong."
Sir Keir Starmer, UK Prime Minister
Doyle's past ties to convicted offender resurface
Lord Doyle previously apologized for his association with Sean Morton, a former Labour councillor in Moray convicted in 2017 of indecent child image offences. Reports revealed Doyle had campaigned for Morton in 2016 while the latter maintained his innocence. Doyle stated his support was based on Morton's denial of the charges at the time.
Mandelson's appointment adds to political turmoil
The Foreign Office granted Lord Mandelson security clearance for the US ambassador role in January 2025 despite concerns raised during vetting. He assumed the position the following month but was dismissed seven months later due to his connections with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Starmer defended the process, insisting due diligence was followed, while Badenoch countered that the prime minister had misled Parliament. Labour MPs largely backed Starmer, though some remained silent during the exchange, breaking from the usual show of support.
Further testimony expected next week
The Foreign Affairs Committee confirmed that Morgan McSweeney, Starmer's former Downing Street chief of staff, will testify next Tuesday regarding his role in Mandelson's appointment. McSweeney resigned in February amid the escalating controversy.
