Wes Streeting, the health secretary, has published private messages exchanged with Peter Mandelson, revealing concerns about Labour's electoral prospects and candid criticism of the government's lack of a growth strategy. The messages, spanning from six months before Mandelson's appointment in December 2024 to the present, show periodic and sometimes friendly exchanges between the two. Streeting admitted he underestimated the implications of Mandelson's appointment, whose resignation from Labour and dismissal as ambassador followed links to Jeffrey Epstein and an ongoing police investigation.

In the messages, Streeting expressed fears about losing his parliamentary seat and questioned Labour's appeal to voters, indirectly critiquing Sir Keir's leadership. The correspondence also discussed the recognition of a Palestinian state, with Streeting advocating for alignment with France and warning of potential resignations within the party. Mandelson cautioned that such moves could undermine Labour's credibility. The UK's formal recognition of Palestine in September drew criticism from Israel and political opponents, highlighting divisions within Labour and the government.