Starmer's chief secretary consoled ex-envoy Mandelson in undisclosed texts, report shows

Undisclosed text messages have revealed that Darren Jones, chief secretary to Labour leader Keir Starmer, offered commiserations to Peter Mandelson following his dismissal as US ambassador. These messages were not part of the official disclosures made during a government reshuffle.

Jones's communications also included requests for advice regarding the reshuffle itself. Furthermore, he made critical comments about Jonathan Reynolds, who was then the business secretary, and expressed views on the influence of trade unions. The content of these texts offers a glimpse into the internal discussions and sentiments within the Labour party during a period of political change.

“

Darren Jones sent his commiserations to Peter Mandelson after he was sacked as US ambassador in messages that were not disclosed as part of the humble address release.

The revelations stem from messages that were not initially disclosed as part of a standard release, raising questions about the transparency of communications surrounding key political figures. The nature of the messages suggests a level of informal consultation and candid opinion-sharing among senior party members.

“

Jones’s texts also included requests for advice on the reshuffle and disobliging comments about the then business secretary Jonathan Reynolds and the influence of trade unions.