British former senior civil servant and Brexit negotiator
A cross-party Foreign Affairs Committee has found the process by which Peter Mandelson was appointed British Ambassador to the United States "nothing short of disastrous". It demands pre-appointment security vetting, a veto for MPs, and full public records of discussions. The report asserts the appointment did not follow proper checks and warned this should not be repeated.
The government has faced ongoing controversy over Lord Mandelson’s security vetting. Sir Olly Robbins has sought a judicial review of his dismissal as permanent under-secretary of the Foreign Office, arguing there was no fair procedure and that the prime minister lacked authority to dismiss him. The FDA union represents Robbins, insisting the process harmed the civil service and the prime minister’s handling is under scrutiny.