Arabic version: تأجيل نشر ملفات ماندلسون حتى بعد عطلة البرلمان

The publication of the second batch of documents related to Lord Mandelson’s appointment as the UK’s ambassador to the US has been postponed until after Parliament’s upcoming recess. Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones announced this decision in the House of Commons, stating that the delay is intended to allow MPs sufficient time to review the material.

According to BBC News, the delay follows a committee of MPs’ decision to withhold and redact some files on new grounds. Jones refuted claims of a cover-up, asserting that the government is adhering to standard procedures for redacting sensitive information.

Lord Mandelson was sacked as ambassador last year due to revelations regarding his connections with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In February, Parliament voted to compel the government to release all documents concerning Mandelson’s appointment through a parliamentary process known as a humble address. Despite initial resistance, the government eventually agreed to submit sensitive documents to the Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) for review.

The first tranche of documents was published in March, but concerns have arisen regarding additional redactions and withheld information. Sir Jeremy Wright, the ISC deputy chairman, emphasized that MPs should have a say in any alterations to the terms of the humble address if the government wishes to withhold details not pertinent to national security. Jones maintained that targeted redactions were made in accordance with established precedents, emphasizing the importance of protecting personal data collected during the security vetting process.

Looking ahead, Jones indicated that the documents would be published as soon as possible after the recess, which begins at the end of this week and concludes on June 1. The government aims to ensure the release of the documents before the parliamentary by-election in Makerfield, expected on June 18.