Angela Rayner’s hopes of succeeding at No 10 face delay as HMRC examines past property dealings, including stamp duty on a former home. She insists she followed the rules, while opponents demand clarity before any leadership contest should the PM step aside.

Angela Rayner challenged the PM over the Mandelson affair, prompting a rapid reversal after Labour MPs rebelled. No 10 moved to distance itself and ordered a review into contacts and lobbying. The episode has raised doubts about the PM’s authority and party discipline.

Brown alleges No 10 concealed details about Lord Mandelson’s leaked emails with Jeffrey Epstein, demanding a full account from officials. The Met has opened an investigation based on the files. Under pressure, Mandelson resigned from the Lords as scrutiny intensifies.

Lord Mandelson faces claims he leaked No 10 emails to Jeffrey Epstein, including updates on economic policy. The Met is assessing possible misconduct, while Starmer urges the removal of his peerage. Downing Street correspondence from 2009 is said to have been shared.