Will we ever know everything about Peter Mandelson?
From Electoral Dysfunction by Sky News
April 24, 2026 · 47 min
About this episode
The episode discusses the ongoing controversy surrounding Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador and features an interview with Green Party leader Zack Polanski.
Sir Keir Starmer says he has "put to bed" the row over the appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador – but it looks set to rumble on for the PM. Starmer's former chief of staff Morgan McSweeney has now been summoned to give evidence to the Commons, as well as Sir Olly Robbins's predecessor at the Foreign Office, Sir Philip Barton. Beth explains why Barton's evidence could end up being "box office", while Ruth and Harriet give their assessment on Starmer's very difficult week. And the team discuss if it might be easier to reveal all the information which came up during vetting. Peter Mandelson denies criminal wrongdoing and has not been charged. Plus – Beth's in Manchester interviewing Green Party leader Zack Polanski. Will he be able to persuade voters in Labour heartlands – and beyond - to jump ship? For a list of all candidates standing in your area, check the Electoral Commission website: www.electoralcommission.org.uk/i-am-a/voter/your-election-information Got a question for the burner phone? WhatsApp 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk And if you didn't know, you can also watch Ruth, Beth and Harriet on YouTube .
People in this episode
Hosts: Beth, Ruth, Harriet
Guest: Zack Polanski
Topics covered
- politics
- Peter Mandelson
- Keir Starmer
- Green Party
- elections
- UK politics
Keywords
- Peter Mandelson
- Keir Starmer
- Morgan McSweeney
- Zack Polanski
- UK elections
- political controversy
- Green Party
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Green Party, Sky News, Electoral Commission
More episodes of Electoral Dysfunction
- More resignations for Keir Starmer: can it get any worse? · June 12, 2026 · 54 min
- Is Nigel Farage exploiting Henry Nowak’s murder? · June 5, 2026 · 57 min
- Andy Burnham on Britain’s future... and his own · June 2, 2026 · 25 min
- Why the UK isn’t ungovernable – yet · May 29, 2026 · 42 min
- Who is regulating reality TV? Lessons from MAFS UK · May 22, 2026 · 47 min
- Jess Phillips: Starmer Doesn’t Listen · May 15, 2026 · 48 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Electoral Dysfunction podcast page.