Starmer's Disappearing Messages Confirmed Amid Mandelson Files Row

Downing Street confirmed on 2 June that Prime Minister Keir Starmer uses WhatsApp disappearing-messages, potentially rendering some texts about Lord Mandelson’s US ambassador appointment unrecoverable. The admission follows the 1 June release of over 1,000 pages of documents exposing critical messages from Mandelson to ministers about No 10 and Starmer’s shifting positions. The disclosures have already heightened political-risk perceptions, with renewed concerns over government transparency now adding modest pressure on the UK 100 through increased scrutiny and possible policy reviews. Market impact is expected to remain limited unless wider governance issues emerge.