Sir Olly Robbins, recently dismissed as permanent under-secretary at the Foreign Office, delivered compelling testimony to the foreign affairs committee. He detailed intense pressure from Downing Street to expedite security vetting for Peter Mandelson’s appointment as UK ambassador to the US, ahead of Donald Trump’s inauguration.
Pressure to Accelerate Mandelson’s Appointment
Sir Olly assumed his role on January 8, 2025, shortly after Mandelson’s appointment announcement. He described inheriting a scenario with strong expectations for Mandelson to arrive in Washington swiftly. No 10 had urged his predecessor to proceed ‘at pace’ before Trump’s January 20 inauguration. By then, the King and White House had already endorsed the posting.
Throughout January, constant inquiries from Downing Street created an urgent atmosphere, demanding rapid completion. Sir Olly noted a clear directive not just to hurry, but to finalize the process. He could not confirm direct involvement from the Prime Minister’s then-chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, though reports suggested intense lobbying.
Downing Street’s Approach to Vetting Protocols
Sir Olly submitted a letter to the committee highlighting No 10’s commitment to the appointment. The government overlooked standard advice to secure clearance before announcing political appointees. The Cabinet Office even questioned the need for developed vetting (DV), given Mandelson’s status as a peer and Privy Counsellor.
The Foreign Office insisted on full vetting, which proceeded despite the early announcement. Mandelson gained access to classified briefings before checks concluded, reflecting a dismissive stance toward protocols.
Managing Security Concerns
Central to the controversy, Sir Olly approved Mandelson’s DV clearance despite UK Security Vetting (UKSV) flags. He rejected claims of overruling experts, stating he received only an oral briefing from Foreign Office security head Ian Collard on January 29. Concerns were deemed borderline but manageable and mitigable by the department.
Sir Olly clarified risks did not involve Mandelson’s past association with Jeffrey Epstein and upheld confidentiality of vetting discussions.
Confidentiality and Notification Issues
Despite pressure, Sir Olly did not inform No 10 of the DV approval immediately after granting it, citing standard confidentiality rules. He emphasized that vetting decisions remain private. His dismissal followed revelations of unreported concerns amid the Epstein scandal, which led to Mandelson’s removal.
Sir Olly expressed regret over the process but defended his team’s judgment. He criticized the premature announcement despite known reputational risks.
Diplomatic Risks and Personal Fallout
Rejecting the appointment late would have strained UK-US ties, potentially drawing public comment from the incoming Trump administration. Sir Olly acknowledged awareness of these stakes but maintained his decision followed due process.
Additionally, sources indicate No 10 privately pushed for spin doctor Matthew Doyle—later disgraced over paedophile links—as an ambassador.
Sir Olly voiced sadness over his sacking, hinting at unfamiliar HR territory and possible legal review. He regretted not addressing the Prime Minister’s concerns prior to dismissal.
