Sir Keir Starmer addressed reporters in Northern Ireland on the government files released about Lord Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador. He accepted responsibility for the decision and stated the files indicated what was known at the time. Starmer noted further questions were asked but additional details remain unreleased due to a Metropolitan Police investigation.

Starmer apologised to Jeffrey Epstein's victims over the matter. A No 10 spokesman denied any cover-up and confirmed the government released all required material. The spokesman added that no notes from Starmer were redacted.

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said key details were absent from the 31 files released on Wednesday. She highlighted missing cover notes that would record Starmer's instructions. Badenoch stated Starmer misled Parliament and the public on the appointment.

Badenoch added that Mandelson should not have received a 75000-pound severance payment after dismissal. The files lacked No 10 correspondence with Mandelson regarding his Epstein connections.

Before release the Intelligence and Security Committee reviewed files for national security risks. Redactions protected junior officials' personal data and limited details on Mandelson including his home address.

Lord Mandelson was arrested on February 23 on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Police alleged he passed sensitive information to Epstein while serving as business secretary. He was bailed then released from bail conditions but stays under investigation.