Prime Minister Keir Starmer's close ally, Darren Jones, sent commiserations to Peter Mandelson after he was dismissed as US ambassador, according to undisclosed text messages revealed by the Spectator. The messages were not part of the humble address release, with Jones previously claiming he had no messages to disclose due to phone changes.
Jones' Messages to Mandelson
In the texts, Jones, the chief secretary to the Treasury, wrote: 'You've been doing such a great job, and you worked wonders with Trump. I'm so sorry about today.' He also sought advice on a potential reshuffle, expressing a preference for the role of business secretary, technology secretary, or energy secretary, and noted that 'DBT my preference – everyone fond of Jonny but perception that DBT not firing on full cylinders.'
Jones criticised then-business secretary Jonathan Reynolds and the influence of trade unions, stating he had 'lost faith' in Reynolds' advisers when they took positions 'because that's what the unions want.' He also remarked that it did not 'fill you with confidence' that Reynolds and Angela Rayner were overseeing growth plans.
Missing Documents and Apology
The release of over 1,500 pages of documents was prompted by a parliamentary motion, but MPs have raised concerns about missing communications, including those withheld due to a police investigation into Mandelson for misconduct in public office. Jones told parliament that the Cabinet Office accepted some messages could not be retrieved due to device changes or disappearing messages.
Jones also apologised in the Commons for his relationship with Mandelson, saying he treated him differently because of his perceived influence and power in the Labour Party. He expressed regret and offered to meet victims of Jeffrey Epstein, the late sex offender with whom Mandelson had a close friendship.
Other Missing Messages
Former chief of staff Morgan McSweeney also exchanged messages with Mandelson on the day of his dismissal, which have not been disclosed. A nine-page UK Security Vetting summary document outlining concerns over Mandelson's security clearance was also missing, with initial advice overruled by former Foreign Office permanent undersecretary Olly Robbins.
Jones defended his actions, stating he did not ignore concerns about Mandelson's appointment because none were raised. He committed to learning from the experience and meeting Epstein's victims if appropriate.
