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The Prime Minister v Olly Robbins: Robbins claims No 10 pushed Mandelson vetting quickly; Downing Street denies
Olly Robbins, the sacked former Foreign Office chief, tells MPs that there was a strong No 10 pressure to vet Lord Mandelson quickly, including having him in America soon after. Downing Street denies a dismissive vetting stance and says Robbins made an error of judgement. The exchange places renewed scrutiny on the Prime Minister’s handling of appointments.
Why It Matters
The episode centers on how ministers and aides influence vetting and appointments, with potential implications for the Prime Minister's authority and credibility.
Timeline
2 Events
Downing Street denies dismissive vetting stance and Robbins's claim
April 21, 2026
Downing Street denies Robbins's claim of a 'dismissive' approach to Mandelson's vetting and says Robbins made an 'error of judgement'.
Robbins tells MPs about No 10 pushing Mandelson vetting quickly
April 21, 2026
Olly Robbins tells MPs that when he took over as Foreign Office chief there was 'already a very very strong expectation' from Number 10 that Lord Mandelson 'needed to be in post and in America as quickly as possible'.