Sir Olly Robbins Warns of ‘Dismissive Approach’ in Peter Mandelson Ambassador Appointment Process

Former Foreign Office chief Sir Olly Robbins has criticised the UK government’s handling of Peter Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador to the United States, stating that No 10 displayed a “dismissive approach” to vetting concerns and prioritised speed over proper scrutiny.

Speaking before the Foreign Affairs Committee, Robbins revealed that he was briefed that the UK Security Vetting (UKSV) service considered Mandelson a “borderline” case for security clearance, “leaning towards recommending that clearance be denied.” However, he said these risks were assessed as manageable, and the clearance decision was made independently of political pressure.

Robbins told MPs there was “pressure” for the Foreign Office to approve the appointment quickly, with No 10 showing “no interest in whether, only interest in when” Mandelson could take up the post. He described a push to have Mandelson in Washington “as quickly as humanly possible.”

The appointment became controversial after Mandelson was sacked just nine months into the role following new revelations about his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Downing Street has since admitted that Prime Minister Keir Starmer did not speak directly to Mandelson before appointing him.

Released government documents showed that officials had warned Starmer about the risks of a political appointment to the ambassador role, specifically detailing concerns over Mandelson’s Epstein links. Starmer has since acknowledged making a mistake in the appointment and apologised to Epstein’s victims.

Despite Robbins stating that the security clearance decision was “rigorously independent” of Foreign Office pressure, he acknowledged that the timing of the appointment was influenced by political urgency. No 10 has denied claims that the vetting process was rushed or that Starmer’s role was covered up, saying normal procedures were followed.

The episode continues to cause political difficulties for Starmer, with Labour MPs expressing frustration over the ongoing fallout from the Mandelson appointment.