Key points as MPs question former Foreign Office boss on Mandelson vetting row
The Foreign Affairs Committee is investigating the vetting process for Lord Mandelson's appointment as the UK's ambassador to the United States. Concerns have been raised about Mandelson's links to Jeffrey Epstein, which led to his dismissal by the prime minister. Key witnesses, including former Foreign Office officials, expressed that there was pressure to expedite the vetting process without adequate consultation or consideration of potential risks.
- ▪The Foreign Affairs Committee is examining the vetting of Lord Mandelson for the ambassador role.
- ▪Sir Philip Barton stated he was not consulted about Mandelson's appointment until shortly before it was announced.
- ▪Morgan McSweeney admitted that appointing Mandelson was a serious error of judgment and expressed regret over the decision.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Key points as MPs question ex-senior aide about Mandelson appointment28 April 2026ShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleKate WhannelPolitical reporterUK Parliament/ PAThe Foreign Affairs Committee has been hearing evidence about the vetting of Lord Mandelson to be the UK's ambassador to the United States.The prime minister sacked Lord Mandelson from the role in September 2025 over his links to the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, but has been facing ongoing questions about the appointment ever since.The committee first heard from Sir Philip Barton, who was the senior civil servant at the Foreign Office when the PM decided to send Lord Mandelson to Washington DC.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at BBC News.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from BBC News
