The Two Matts The increasingly complex calculus in being the British Prime Minister
Mar 12, 2026
A brisk run through the Mandelson report and whether it further damages Keir Starmer’s standing. A look at polling shocks that suggest a tight four-way race and the pitfalls of first-past-the-post. A deep dive into the Iran conflict’s early economic and naval consequences and how drones and asymmetric tactics are reshaping warfare. Debate over a high-profile protest ban and its political risks.
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Downing Street Uprising After Vetting Failures
- Internal Downing Street dissent reportedly forced departures over the Mandelson vetting, including Tim Allan and others involved in vetting.
- Matt d’Ancona cites three anonymous sources saying officials were told to leave amid an uprising by staff, especially women.
Public Fixity Limits Political Shock Value
- The public's view of Starmer may already be fixed, limiting further damage from the Mandelson scandal but raising questions about ministerial accountability.
- Both Matts argue unpopularity doesn't negate the need for proper political reckoning and visible leadership responses.
No Women Stepped Forward To Defend Starmer
- Number 10 struggled to find female cabinet figures to defend Starmer publicly, exposing a political and gendered weakness in crisis handling.
- Matt d’Ancona notes Nick Thomas-Symonds, a man, was sent to face Emma Barnett instead of a woman willing to 'bat' for the PM.