It's not often that I agree with anything Peter Mandelson says, but in this instance I think he is spot on.

Jo, Folkestone, UK

it is so easy for mandy to speak ,as he is in the lords, and does not answer to parliament. that in its self is a mockery,without even going into the issue whether he is fit to be called a lord or his transfer from brussles to westminster.

john haydon rowe, javea,

As "Business Manager" might one enquire what part of Mandelson's remit this falls under? He is not a member of HM's government or opposition and therefore should have nothing official to say on the subject (irrespective of whether he may be the behind-the-scenes architect of the whole affair).

Sue, Felpham,

What amazes me is Smith's supposed ignorance. It beggars beleif that the Hone Sec was not consulted about the arrest of an MP for his actions as an MP (as opposed to his private behaviour). If she didn't know then someone in her department must have, and didn't pass it on. Even worse.

Alex, London, UK

Opposition MPs, regardless of party, have always used leaks to embarass the incumbent government. It's part and parcell of life at Westminster. They never utter anything that may breach the OSA or put lives at risk. Brown should be arrested over leaks he recieved during the last Tory government.

Neil Smith, Newcastle Upon Tyne, England

Well it either has to be one way or another, Mandelson.

Either the act was illegal in which case Brown needs to be prosecuted or it was illegal and Brown needs to answer to the public as to why he allowed it to happen.

Paul, Toronto, Canada

There have always been gov leaks. The only difference this time is that the gov are trying to muzzle anyone that would embarras them.
Do not believe the police are "in on anything" but we need to ensure that opposition can effectively hold gov to account, without fear of being bullied.

spencer, london, uk

Come on then Labour party, whilst in opposition Gordon Brown consistently used leaks to further his career and that of your party - accuse Green of crimes as Mandelson and Smith do and lets see Brown and all under him charged accordingly. Let the government be measured by its own new found standards

Bryan, Totland , UK

Is it legal or in the country's best interests to film a Special Branch raid and place the footage in the public domain? Are the identities of the police safeguarded? The more we get into this matter the more irresponsible and cavalier the Tories seem to be.

Benjamin, London,

Well, 'Lord' Mandelson is a well versed authority on understanding 'self serving'- he's built his entire career on being nothing else.

Doug, Glasgow,

After the Blair years how can anyone have any faith in the integrity of any Public Servant? The media might like to reflect on the level of disillusionment with Public Servants and the knock on impact on our appetite for reading, listening, viewing. I receive more stimulation from Mr Blobby.

Paul , Belfast, UK

pot....kettle....black

Mike, southport, UK

Of course he "stirred things up". Its what he does. Does anybody expect Mandy to add anything constructive or helpful. Of course not, but to be critical, to defend Labour, to help his friends is his only way.

Ian, Norwich, UK

Whereas one could never accuse Mandelson of being self-serving, could one?

Paul Freeman, London, England