(LONDON, February 10, 2026) — British ministers have been warned against publishing messages exchanged with Peter Mandelson following the release of private WhatsApp conversations by Wes Streeting, a Labour Party Member of Parliament. The Cabinet Office cautioned officials that sharing such material could be covered by a parliamentary motion demanding the release of documents related to Mandelson’s appointment as the UK’s ambassador to the United States.
Ministers have been warned against sharing messages with Peter Mandelson as police investigate allegations of misconduct in public office.
- Ministers have been advised not to publish messages with Peter Mandelson due to a potential Commons motion for document release.
- The Metropolitan Police are investigating allegations of misconduct in public office involving Mandelson and claims he shared market-sensitive information with Jeffrey Epstein in 2009.
- Wes Streeting released WhatsApp messages with Mandelson, which included critical remarks about the government’s strategy.
- Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need for a “managed process” regarding the release of information.
Police Investigation Underway
The Metropolitan Police are currently investigating allegations of misconduct in public office, stemming from claims that Mandelson passed confidential market information to Jeffrey Epstein when he served as Business Secretary under Gordon Brown’s government in 2009, according to reports. The police issued a statement on Tuesday stating that “it is vital due process is followed” to avoid jeopardizing the investigation and any potential prosecution.
Streeting’s Message Release
Streeting proactively released dozens of WhatsApp messages exchanged with Mandelson between August 2024 and October 2025, in what appeared to be an attempt to distance himself from the former ambassador. Within those messages, Streeting expressed concerns about the government’s lack of a clear growth strategy and questioned the effectiveness of No. 10’s communications operation, remarks that sources suggest were part of a strategy to position himself for a potential future leadership contest.
Government Response
Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the issue at an event in Hertfordshire, stating that the release of information must be a “managed process” and that his government should be “acting together in this.” He added, “The issue of text messages and all information that’s being gathered as a result of the humble address last week, that needs to be a managed process, both in government and obviously, there’s a police element to it.” When asked if he had reprimanded Streeting for unilaterally releasing his messages, Starmer said, “I do think that we all need to ensure that we’re all acting together in this, because all the information needs to be pulled together.”
Searches Conducted
Officers have searched two properties connected to Peter Mandelson as part of the ongoing Metropolitan Police investigation, officials confirmed. A Met Police spokesperson stated on Tuesday, “An investigation into alleged misconduct in public office is under way and it is vital due process is followed so that our criminal investigation and any potential prosecution is not compromised.” The spokesperson added that the police will work with the Cabinet Office to review relevant documents over the coming weeks, with the ultimate decision on publication resting with the government and Parliament.
“This investigation may be complex but we are focused on a timely and thorough process so that justice is served in this case, or future ones linked to the Epstein files,” a Met Police spokesperson said.
Time.news based this report in part on reporting by The Guardian and added independent analysis and context.
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