Channeling the Godfather
Peter Mandelson, often referred to as the Prince of Darkness, has resurfaced in UK politics after spending years in the political wilderness during Jeremy Corbyn's leadership. He recently revealed his last piece of election advice to Sir Keir Starmer: "Make them an offer they can’t refuse." In an exclusive interview, Lord Mandelson declared Sir Keir the heir to Blair, but acknowledged that, unlike Blair, Starmer is his own man.
Return of the Westminster Machiavelli
After years in political obscurity, Westminster's very own Machiavelli is back and offering tips to Sir Keir Starmer on how to win over voters. With a crunch party conference on the horizon, Lord Mandelson has given his seal of approval to the Labour leader, likening him to Blair. However, his support may be viewed as a kiss of death by those who still consider Blair toxic.
A Shifting Political Landscape
Sir Keir Starmer is gathering his party faithful in Liverpool this week, buoyed by recent victories in by-elections. Meanwhile, Rishi Sunak, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, is fighting back with a promise of change. Both leaders are looking to convince voters ahead of the next election, with Starmer still seen as boring and uninspiring by many. Behind the scenes, Starmer has been leaning on advisers from the Blair and Brown era, including Lord Mandelson, for guidance and support.
Whisperings of the 'Dark Lord'
Speculation is rife about Lord Mandelson's role in the Starmer regime. Known as the 'Dark Lord,' Mandelson has a history of advising and influencing Labour leaders. While he insists he is not as involved as he was in the past, he admits to speaking with Starmer and supporting his efforts. The question remains: is Mandelson the power behind the throne?
A Plea to Working People
Lord Mandelson's advice to Sir Keir Starmer for the upcoming party conference is clear: focus on the future, present a compelling offer to working people, reconnect with Sun readers, and align with voters who left Labour in 2019 due to disillusionment with Jeremy Corbyn. The chief priority, according to Mandelson, is the need to turn around the economy.
A Labour Government on the Horizon?
Although Labour is currently ahead in the polls, many voters have yet to make up their minds. Lord Mandelson emphasizes the importance of credibility and practical policies in winning over voters. While he dismisses claims of helping pen Starmer's conference speech, he acknowledges that the Labour leader must convince the public of his ability to deliver. Taking a shot at Labour's climate change chief Ed Miliband, Mandelson praises Starmer's unwavering stance on defense and argues that his willingness to amend policies based on changing facts is a strength.
Never Say Never
Despite his pivotal role in Labour's past successes, Lord Mandelson claims he does not wish to return to government. However, he recalls a similar sentiment in 2008 when Gordon Brown convinced him to come back. With another economic storm on the horizon, it remains to be seen what the future holds and whether Mandelson's support extends beyond advice and guidance.
