This is the current time in the UK: Thursday, February 5, 2026, 5:00 AM UTC.
UK Politics: Mandelson Files and Leadership Scrutiny
The most prominent domestic political topic dominating the UK news cycle over the past 24 hours has been the impending release of documents related to Peter Mandelson’s appointment as the UK’s ambassador to the United States. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has ordered the publication of emails, documents, and messages, with the exception of those deemed prejudicial to national security or that could damage diplomatic relations. This move comes amid pressure from the opposition Conservative Party and growing unease within Starmer’s own Labour Party, with some MPs reportedly questioning his leadership. The documents are expected to shed light on Mandelson’s known friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Starmer has stated that he knew about Mandelson’s ongoing friendship with Epstein when he appointed him but claims he was repeatedly lied to about the extent of their relationship. The release of these files is seen as an attempt by Starmer to draw a line under the widening scandal.
International Political Topics:
Ukraine and Russia Peace Talks: The first day of US-led peace talks between Ukraine and Russia in Abu Dhabi has been described as “productive”. However, significant obstacles to a viable peace deal remain, with Ukraine accusing Moscow of violating an energy truce. The European Union is considering a deal on a Ukraine loan that could boost the UK if it agrees to help pay the costs.
UK-India Trade Relations: The House of Lords International Agreements Committee has published its report on the UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA), concluding that the deal is a significant achievement given the challenging geopolitical backdrop. However, the report notes that some key UK interests, such as legal services and investment protection, were omitted from the agreement, and that benefits for UK goods exporters will take time to materialise. The committee also highlights the potential implications of the recently signed EU-India FTA.
UK Defence Spending and Military Plan: A government minister has defended delays in finalising a long-awaited defence investment plan (DIP), which is also impacting the development of the UK’s next-generation Tempest fighter jet programme. The DIP, originally expected in autumn, has faced repeated postponements amid warnings of a £28bn funding gap over the next four years. There is also discussion about whether NATO pressure might lead the UK to increase defence spending.
There were no specific public speeches with timings directly reported from these outlets within the last 24 hours concerning these major political topics.
Sources used: The Guardian, The Times, Financial Times, BBC News.