Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy has asserted that Prime Minister Keir Starmer would have blocked Peter Mandelson’s appointment as the UK’s ambassador to Washington had he been informed that Mandelson failed security vetting. Lammy’s comments come as the government attempts to manage the damaging fallout from revelations that the Foreign Office overruled a decision to deny Mandelson clearance.
The Vetting Failure and Internal Silence
In his first public comments on the affair, Lammy described it as “inexplicable” that Oliver Robbins, the former top civil servant forced out of the Foreign Office this week, chose to keep Downing Street unaware of the vetting outcome.
Lammy reported being “shocked and surprised” when he first learned of the situation although on a military flight returning from the Middle East. He was summoned to the cockpit by the captain to receive an urgent radio call from No 10.
Both Starmer and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper have stated they were unaware of the vetting failure until this week. Lammy insisted that neither he nor his advisers had requested or received information regarding the conclusions of the vetting process at the time.
Diplomatic Risks and Administrative Friction
Records indicate that Oliver Robbins received the vetting outcome after the appointment of Mandelson had already been announced. Despite a separate due diligence process, Robbins flagged the potential reputational risk of sending Mandelson to Washington.
Some insiders suggest Robbins may have been acting on what he believed were expectations at the time, while allies argue he was simply following established rules to keep vetting details away from ministers.
Political Pressure and Future Outlook
Keir Starmer is scheduled to face MPs on Monday as he seeks to limit the damage to his premiership. Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey has called for the government to “come clean” by publishing the initial due diligence report on Mandelson.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has ordered the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) to conduct a full review of all information provided to the foreign affairs committee regarding the security vetting process.
The scandal arrives ahead of local elections, which Lammy suggested are likely to be tough for the Labour party. He noted that voters may use these elections as a referendum on public services, cost of living pressures, and general angst.
The ongoing row could further complicate the government’s position, though Lammy expressed regret that the issue has resurfaced while the public is focused on petrol prices and the war in Iran.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did David Lammy describe the situation as “inexplicable”?
Lammy used this term since Oliver Robbins, the former top civil servant, opted to depart Downing Street in the dark regarding the outcome of Peter Mandelson’s security vetting.
What role did the U.S. Election play in the appointment timeline?
There were time pressures in January to confirm Mandelson in post because Donald Trump had won the November election and was moving into the White House, making it desirable for the UK to have an ambassador ready.
What is the current status of the government’s internal investigation?
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has required the FCDO to perform a full review of all information given to the foreign affairs committee concerning the security vetting process for Lord Mandelson.
Do you believe the pressure to establish diplomatic ties with a new U.S. Administration justifies accelerating security protocols?
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