Mandelson vetting scandal live: Kevin Maguire says Keir Starmer made two mistakes
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing criticism over the appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador and the subsequent sacking of Foreign Office chief Sir Olly Robbins. Starmer's Labour MPs are distancing themselves from the PM ahead of Prime Minister's Questions.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is under pressure following the appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador. Robbins, the former Foreign Office chief, told the Foreign Affairs Committee that No 10 wanted Mandelson in the US 'as soon as humanly possible' and were dismissive of vetting procedures. No 10 rejected the claim, but Starmer faced criticism from Labour MPs and Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch. The scandal has caused a headache for Starmer ahead of local elections. Labour MPs, including Dan Carden and Ed Miliband, have expressed concerns over the appointment and Robbins' sacking. Chancellor Rachel Reeves and MP Emily Thornberry have backed Starmer's decision to sack Robbins.
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