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Mandy’s BBC interview riles the Corbynites

Oh dear. Yesterday Peter Mandelson appeared on the Andrew Marr Show to warn of the dangers of Brexit. The New Labour grandee used the primetime slot to criticise the government’s handling of Brexit and call for an Article 50 rebellion in the Lords.

While Mandy managed to refrain from attacking Jeremy Corbyn, Mr S understands it wasn’t enough for Labour’s high command. In fact, a number of senior Corbynites are rather annoyed with the BBC that he was on so close to two crucial by-elections in Leave areas when the slot could have been given to a member of the shadow cabinet — or the dear leader himself.

Then again, given that Corbyn is alleged to take a half day in lieu whenever he does Sunday morning television, Mr S suspects it wouldn’t be economical for the Leader’s Office to send him on too often.

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Steerpike is The Spectator's gossip columnist, serving up the latest tittle tattle from Westminster and beyond. Email tips to steerpike@spectator.co.uk or message @MrSteerpike

This article originally appeared in the UK edition

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