Mandelson scandal is biggest crisis for diplomatic service in decades, says ex-Foreign Office chief
Summary
A security vetting scandal involving Peter Mandelson, who failed the UK security check to become ambassador to the US, has caused a major crisis in the UK diplomatic service. Oliver Robbins, a civil servant dismissed after the scandal broke, is defended by a former Foreign Office chief who says Robbins was unfairly treated by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The issue has raised questions about the vetting process and political decisions.Key Facts
- Peter Mandelson failed the UK security vetting for ambassador to the US in January 2025.
- Oliver Robbins, a senior civil servant, reportedly knew about this failure but did not inform ministers.
- Robbins was dismissed shortly after the news broke, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer saying he only recently learned about the vetting outcome.
- Former Foreign Office chief Simon McDonald criticized the dismissal of Robbins as unfair and rushed.
- The vetting process indicated a "high" security concern and recommended denying clearance for Mandelson.
- The Foreign Office overruled this recommendation and approved Mandelson for the ambassador role.
- Robbins is expected to explain his side at a parliamentary committee soon, which may challenge the government’s account.
- The scandal is described as the largest crisis in the UK diplomatic service in decades.
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