Lord Mandelson Humble Address: Government Response Update

Desmond Swayne Excerpts

Monday 27th April 2026 Commons Chamber

[Darren Jones]

I thank my hon. Friend for his question. As has been said at the Dispatch Box before, it was previously due process that for the appointments of ambassadors and direct ministerial appointments, vetting took place after the announcement and before the commencement of the contract for employment. Given the problems that have been shown to be applicable to these processes, that has now changed.

[Sir Desmond Swayne (New Forest West) (Con)]

A referral to the Privileges Committee has always been considered a House matter—a matter for the individual judgment of Members of Parliament. It would be an abomination if it were to be whipped by either side, wouldn’t it?

[Darren Jones]

I refer the right hon. Gentleman to my previous answer.