Readers debate Starmer’s judgement over Mandelson and Rayner

In MetroTalk: Starmer is questioned over judgement failures, more on Rayner stepping down as Deputy PM and England flags put up in Dartford are defended (Picture: Carl Court/Getty Images)

Do you agree with our readers? Have your say on these MetroTalk topics and more in the comments.

Reader questions prime minister’s judgement of character

Prior to his eventual sacking yesterday, we went through the same scenario with Lord Mandelson over his friendship with paedophile Jeffrey Epstein as we did with Angela Rayner over her tax affairs.

Starmer’s judgement must be called into question. And considering how Labour constantly attacked the Tories over sleaze and corruption, they are proving their equal. Molly Neville, Sheffield

Rayner for party leader?

Starmer’s energetic defence of Peter Mandelson contrasted with his indifferent defence of Angela Rayner for her confusion about a trivial tax detail.

Labour members need to start moves to oust Starmer and let Rayner stand for the leadership. Angela is the only politician who can beat Reform.

Her only fault is she’s a socialist and socialism is something Starmer detests. Alan Meadowcroft, Royton

This reader says Starmer should be ousted, and Rayner should fill the role of party leader (Picture: Wiktor Szymanowicz/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Another reader argues for Rayner’s return

I would like to say how much I agreed with Caitlyn of Beeston (MetroTalk, Tue) that Angela Rayner has been bullied by many who have far worse sins to account for.

The country has lost a dedicated and fine minister and we shall miss her expertise. I hope somehow the PM can draw her back in. Jeanne Laffan, Wimbledon

Reader argues Rayner is an ‘absent MP’

Caitlyn rates Ms Rayner as having been among our best ministers. Maybe. But she is certainly not one our best constituency MPs and, if Caitlyn were a resident of Ashton-under-Lyne, as I am, she might want to rethink her support.

Rayner only ever seems to be here if there is a photo opportunity, and now, the ultimate insult – buying a flat on the south coast, hundreds of miles away from where she ought to be spending her time when away from London.

Mind you, I’m not surprised she doesn’t want to be here. It’s crime-ridden, dirty and down-at-heel. How on earth did it get in this state? Could an absent MP be part of the problem? Name supplied, via email

Liverpool Wavertree MP under fire for time management

Paula Barker, MP for Liverpool Wavertree, has just pulled out of the running to become to become Labour’s deputy leader.

I’m surprised she had time to even consider it – this is, after all, the same person who didn’t vote on the winter fuel allowance because she was too busy. Cathleen, via email

This reader criticises Liverpool Wavertree MP, who recently existed the running to be Labour’s deputy leader (Picture: Getty Images)

Reader says Dartford’s England flags are a symbol of football success

Brilliant England beat Serbia 5-0 on Tuesday night and yet the England flags have been taken down around Dartford.

Flags have always gone up for England football teams – men’s or women’s. I know some people are putting the flags up for other reasons but come on, let us back our own country. Den, Dartford

Do you agree with our readers? Have your say on these MetroTalk topics and more in the comments.

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