UK Edition
The IndependentMonday, 20 April 2026
Click image to view full size
Judgement day for Starmer over vetting scandal
The prime minister will face an inquisition from MPs today to explain what he knew about the Mandelson vetting row – as The Independent’s enquiry to No 10 seven months ago highlighting that peer had failed the process was called a ‘smoking gun’
The paper frames the situation as a critical test for the Prime Minister, emphasising his upcoming parliamentary scrutiny and actively highlighting its own past reporting as central evidence in the controversy.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing parliamentary questions regarding whether he knew that Lord Mandelson had failed a security vetting process before an ambassadorial appointment. The situation is escalated by claims of prior warnings, including a WhatsApp exchange involving this newspaper.
“smoking gun”
“Holding government to account”
Relationships between siblings, with their joys and jealousies, are underexplored
Opinion or feature piece highlighting the psychological dynamics of sibling relationships.
Haaland and Gabriel clash as Man City win blows title race wide open
Dramatic sports summary focusing on player conflict and the impact on the league standings.
IRAN REJECTS FRESH PEACE TALKS AFTER TRUMP THREATENS NEW STRIKES
Factual report of a diplomatic breakdown following US military threats.
More from The Independent
Front page image reproduced for the purpose of critical review and commentary — about our editorial use.