How Olly Robbins’ knightly charm glossed over burning questions on Mandelson vetting
Summary
Olly Robbins testified in parliament about his decision to grant Peter Mandelson security clearance despite warnings from the official vetting agency. Robbins said he relied on an oral briefing and believed the case was "borderline," while the vetting agency had formally recommended denial due to serious concerns.Key Facts
- Olly Robbins defended his decision to approve Peter Mandelson’s security clearance.
- The UK Security Vetting agency had marked Mandelson’s clearance with "red flags," recommending denial.
- Robbins did not see the vetting file himself but was briefed orally by the Foreign Office security director.
- Robbins described the case as "borderline," suggesting there was debate about clearance.
- MPs were briefed that the official recommendation was to deny clearance due to risks.
- Robbins said the Foreign Office has the authority to grant clearance, even against UKSV advice.
- Some senior civil servants supported Robbins’ testimony and called for the prime minister to reinstate him.
- The case raises questions about UK security clearance procedures and transparency.
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