Downing Street Confirms Starmer Uses WhatsApp Auto-Delete as MPs Seek Mandelson Appointment Records
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jun 2
Downing Street Confirms Starmer Uses WhatsApp Auto-Delete as MPs Seek Mandelson Appointment Records
3 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Jun 2
No 10 said Keir Starmer uses disappearing messages on his phone, meaning some WhatsApps with or about Lord Mandelson may no longer exist in records released over his US ambassador appointment.
Only a few messages from Starmer appeared in Monday's disclosure after MPs ordered publication of all related documents; Starmer said he had handed over all the messages he still held.
WhatsApp's tool can erase texts after 24 hours, seven days or 90 days, and ministerial guidance allows it only if record-keeping and transparency are not undermined.
A review of WhatsApp use in government is under way, with Downing Street acknowledging 'lessons to be learnt' and critics including Conservatives and Lord Beamish warning over missing audit trails and security.