Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee wants veto power over political appointments to top diplomatic posts following controversy over Lord Mandelson's US ambassador posting. A report criticized the vetting process as "made up as it went along" and called for formal pre-appointment hearings.
Keir Starmer faced intense questioning at PMQs regarding the vetting of Peter Mandelson and potential diplomatic appointments for political allies. While denying pressure on the Foreign Office, Starmer acknowledged failures in communication regarding security vetting outcomes.
Sir Olly Robbins has told the Commons Foreign Affairs Committee that he did not inform No 10 about vetting concerns regarding Lord Mandelson's security clearance for the Washington DC ambassador role. In a nearly two-and-a-half hour session, Sir Olly revealed a separate attempt to appoint Lord Doyle to a diplomatic post, despite his known ties to a convicted sex offender. The testimony deepens the crisis for Sir Keir Starmer, who has acknowledged the Mandelson appointment was a grave mistake. The PM now faces questions about his team's knowledge and judgment.
