No. 10 rejects calls for inquiry into Mandelson-US tech deal

The UK government has rejected calls for a formal inquiry into claims that Lord Mandelson helped arrange a technology agreement between Britain and the United States. A Downing Street spokesperson said the allegations did not warrant an investigation, according to the BBC. The decision comes after opposition politicians demanded transparency over the former ambassador's role.

The deal reportedly covers cooperation on artificial intelligence and semiconductor supply chains. Mandelson, who served as the UK's ambassador to the US until earlier this year, has faced questions about his business ties to American technology companies. He has not commented publicly on the reports.

Ministers insist that all relevant rules were followed and that no confidential information was shared improperly. Critics argue that the arrangement raises conflict-of-interest concerns given Mandelson's private sector work. The row adds to existing tensions over the government's handling of trade and technology policy.

Opposition MPs have written to the Cabinet Office asking for a formal review. They say the public deserves a full account of how the deal was negotiated and who stood to benefit. The government has so far declined to publish detailed records of the discussions.

The controversy is likely to continue when Parliament returns. Mandelson's allies say the criticism is politically motivated, while transparency campaigners warn that the lack of scrutiny could undermine trust. No timeline has been set for any further government response.