Sacked Official: Downing Street Demanded Mandelson Vetting Be Skipped
Summary
Former Foreign Office permanent secretary Olly Robbins testified to "constant pressure" from Downing Street to fast-track Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador, despite security concerns and a "dismissive" attitude from the Prime Minister's office.
How coverage differs
Left outlets detail procedural irregularities and pressure to fast-track Mandelson's appointment, while right outlets sensationalize a "No10 rant" and accuse Starmer's office of dismissing national security.
- Left: Downing Street pressured officials, ignored security for Mandelson appointment Left-leaning outlets report on former Foreign Office permanent secretary Olly Robbins' testimony, detailing 'constant pressure' from Downing Street to fast-track Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador. They highlight the Cabinet Office's suggestion that Mandelson did not need security vetting, emphasizing the procedural irregularities.
- Right Right-leaning outlets sensationalize the revelations, highlighting an 'extraordinary No10 Mandelson rant' and accusing Prime Minister Starmer's office of a 'dismissive' attitude towards national security. They emphasize the alleged demand to 'Just f***ing approve it,' framing the situation as a serious breach of protocol and a disregard for security procedures.