Keir Starmer’s Cabinet supporters have come to his aid as he confronts a crucial moment in the Commons regarding the Peter Mandelson vetting controversy.

The embattled Prime Minister will be questioned by MPs on Monday following revelations that the former UK ambassador to Washington did not pass UK Security vetting.

Last week, Mr. Starmer dismissed the Foreign Office head Sir Olly Robbins, expressing anger that the department had not informed No10 and greenlit Lord Mandelson despite his vetting failure.

Liz Kendall stated on Sky News that it was a “serious error” for the Foreign Office chief not to inform Mr. Starmer or the then-Foreign Secretary David Lammy about Lord Mandelson’s vetting outcome.

She emphasized that the PM would have revoked Lord Mandelson’s appointment if he had known about the vetting lapse prior to the public announcement.

When asked about her confidence in Mr. Starmer’s leadership towards the next election, Ms. Kendall responded with full support, praising his resilience and decisiveness.

Referring to the Prime Minister’s stance on major national issues, she continued, “The Prime Minister has consistently made the right decisions on critical matters facing the country.”

The Technology Secretary added, “It was incorrect not to disclose his failure to pass UK Security Vetting. If known at the time, he would not have been appointed.”

Deputy PM Mr. Lammy also defended Mr. Starmer, questioning why Downing Street was kept unaware of Lord Mandelson’s vetting failure. He affirmed that had the PM been aware, Lord Mandelson would not have been appointed as ambassador.

Their statements coincide with the upcoming appearance of the ousted Foreign Office chief Sir Olly Robbins before the Foreign Affairs Committee to present his perspective on the situation.

Former permanent secretary at the Foreign Office Lord Simon McDonald alleged that Sir Olly was unfairly dismissed by the Prime Minister, describing it as a rushed decision without due process or fairness.

In an interview with the BBC, he criticized the handling of the situation, pointing out the lack of opportunity for Sir Olly to present his case before being asked to resign abruptly.