The appointment of Peter Mandelson has been at the center of a heated debate in recent weeks, with many questioning the vetting process that led to his selection. However, according to Cat Little, the top official at the Cabinet Office, "due process" was indeed followed in the appointment. Little's statement was made during a hearing with MPs, where she sought to alleviate concerns surrounding the vetting process.

Little's defense of the appointment comes as a response to criticisms that the vetting process was not thorough enough, and that Mandelson's appointment was rushed through without proper scrutiny. However, Little maintained that all necessary procedures were followed, and that Mandelson's appointment was made in accordance with established protocols. Despite Little's assurances, many MPs remain skeptical about the appointment, and have called for further investigation into the matter.

The controversy surrounding Mandelson's appointment has sparked a wider debate about the vetting process for senior officials, with many calling for greater transparency and accountability. MPs have argued that the current system is too opaque, and that it allows for appointments to be made without proper scrutiny. In response to these concerns, Little has pledged to review the vetting process, and to make recommendations for improvements.

As the debate surrounding Mandelson's appointment continues, it remains to be seen whether the government will take steps to address the concerns of MPs and the public. Little's statement has done little to alleviate the concerns of critics, and it is likely that the issue will continue to be a source of controversy in the coming weeks. With the government facing mounting pressure to provide greater transparency and accountability, it is clear that the vetting process for senior officials will be under intense scrutiny in the months to come.