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Peter Mandelson failed security vetting before ambassador appointment

politicsApr 16, 202619448

Peter Mandelson failed to obtain UK security clearance but was still appointed British ambassador to the United States and took up the Washington posting. The Foreign Office completed an extensive vetting process that concluded Mandelson did not meet clearance requirements before he assumed the role. Opposition MPs said Keir Starmer "lied and lied again" about Mandelson's appointment and demanded the prime minister's resignation. The Foreign Office announced that senior official Olly Robbins will leave his post amid the controversy.

Key Highlights

Peter Mandelson failed UK security clearance before becoming ambassador to the United States.
Opposition MPs say Keir Starmer 'lied and lied again' and must resign.
Top Foreign Office official Olly Robbins will leave his post over the vetting row.
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