Dr Sam Rushworth

Dr Sam Rushworth

Labour — Bishop Auckland

Speaking in the House of Commons on 28 April 2026

Debate

Referral of Prime Minister to Committee of Privileges

Contribution

I will address that point in just a moment. First, let us address the point about process. Sir Chris Wormald’s letter to the Prime Minister said: “The evidence I have reviewed leads me to conclude that appropriate processes were followed in both the appointment and withdrawal of the former HMA Washington.” Sir Olly Robbins confirmed that he did not tell the Prime Minister that Mandelson had failed the vetting process, and said: “You are not supposed to share the findings and reports of UKSV, other than in the exceptional circumstances where doing so allows for the specific mitigation of risk.” Cat Little, who also appeared before the Foreign Affairs Committee, said: “My view is that due process was followed...because the process as I’ve outlined to the Committee, is that UKSV make a recommendation, and the Foreign Office make a decision as to whether to grant DV.” All the evidence so far is certainly corroborating that view.

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