Summary
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said it was unforgivable that he was not told Peter Mandelson had failed his security check before becoming ambassador to Washington. Mandelson was appointed despite initial security concerns and later fired after reports linked him to Jeffrey Epstein. Starmer will explain the situation in parliament and faces criticism for possibly misleading lawmakers.
Key Facts
- Peter Mandelson failed his initial security vetting before his ambassador appointment.
- Security officials recommended denying Mandelson clearance, but this was overruled.
- Mandelson was appointed in late 2024 and later sacked by Starmer after links to Jeffrey Epstein came to light.
- Starmer said he was not informed about Mandelson’s failed security vetting.
- The Prime Minister admitted being furious about not being told and plans to give a full statement to parliament.
- Conservative and Liberal Democrat leaders have called for investigations or Starmer’s resignation.
- Olly Robbins, a senior civil servant in the Foreign Office, was sacked as part of the fallout.
- Starmer repeatedly told parliament that due process had been followed before Mandelson’s appointment.
