Keir Starmer’s embattled National Security Adviser appeared before Parliament’s Joint Committee on the National Security Strategy last Monday – but did so in an entirely unlisted closed session. Powell, who has been widely criticised for dodging Parliamentary scrutiny, now risks fresh criticism for answering to Parliament only under conditions of absolute secrecy. It’s not a great look, he didn’t disclose the meeting either, and promptly flew off for a similarly under-the-radar visit to Beijing…
Parliamentary committees often sit in closed or private sessions but those hearings are usually listed on the order paper and on Parliament’s website. Powell’s hearing was totally unlisted, an “irregular” situation…
Multiple sources said Powell appeared in person before the Committee – despite a report published today suggesting he submitted only written evidence. Powell has drawn ire for his high stakes political role as the first Special Adviser to serve as National Security Adviser. He’s considered more powerful than most ministers, but they are routinely accountable to Parliament in public…
One source blasted the appearance referring to Powell’s subsequent China visit, saying: “he’s appeared in the open at the Chinese parliament, the Great Hall of the People, but won’t appear in the open at the UK Parliament”. Powellgate will run and run…
