Mandelson criticised Starmer’s lack of ‘verve’ and tendency to buckle under pressure
Peter Mandelson has criticized Keir Starmer for lacking 'verve' and succumbing to pressure, suggesting a more assertive leadership style. In a series of WhatsApp exchanges, Mandelson expressed concerns about the government's direction and the public's demand for stronger leadership. The discussions also revealed tensions within the Labour Party and dissatisfaction with current economic strategies.
- ▪Mandelson criticized Starmer's leadership style, suggesting he should adopt a more 'Trumpian' approach.
- ▪He described the current government as 'beleaguered and bereft' and noted a loss of public confidence in leadership.
- ▪The exchanges included discussions about Labour's internal dynamics and criticisms of former Prime Minister Gordon Brown's influence.
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| Original publisher | the Guardian |
| Canonical URL | https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/jun/01/mandelson-criticised-starmer-lack-of-verve-buckle-under-pressure-files-released |
| Publication time | Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:16:47 GMT |
| Retrieval time | 2026-06-01T17:26:33.089Z |
| Last seen | 2026-06-01T17:26:33.089Z |
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Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Keir Starmer and Peter Mandelson during a welcome reception at the ambassador's residence in Washington on 27 February 2025. Photograph: AlamyView image in fullscreenKeir Starmer and Peter Mandelson during a welcome reception at the ambassador's residence in Washington on 27 February 2025. Photograph: AlamyPeter MandelsonMandelson criticised Starmer’s lack of ‘verve’ and tendency to buckle under pressureCriticisms revealed in major release of files relating to Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador to US UK politics live – latest updates Jessica Elgot Deputy political editorMon 1 Jun 2026 13.16 EDTFirst published on Mon 1 Jun 2026 10.43 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GooglePeter Mandelson exchanged WhatsApp messages with a senior cabinet minister criticising Keir Starmer’s lack of “verve”…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at the Guardian.
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