The rush to appease Trump led Keir Starmer into this ethical void | Rafael Behr
Summary
Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced criticism over Peter Mandelson’s appointment as Britain’s ambassador to Washington, which raised security concerns. Starmer said he was not informed about the vetting issues and has taken action by firing a senior official linked to the decision.Key Facts
- Peter Mandelson was appointed Britain’s ambassador to Washington amid controversy.
- Security vetting for Mandelson raised serious concerns that were not disclosed to the Prime Minister.
- Keir Starmer said he did not know about the vetting problems until after the appointment.
- Starmer fired Olly Robbins, a top official who approved Mandelson’s security clearance.
- Robbins testified that there was pressure from Downing Street to proceed with Mandelson’s appointment despite vetting issues.
- Morgan McSweeney, a former chief of staff and Mandelson supporter, resigned earlier over the scandal.
- Starmer apologized, expressing regret for the decision to appoint Mandelson and sympathy for victims linked to Jeffrey Epstein, with whom Mandelson had ties.
- Public dissatisfaction with Labour and Starmer’s leadership is reflected in ongoing poor polling and upcoming local election predictions.
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