- Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador is facing ongoing controversy after he failed crucial security vetting but was given the role regardless.
- A top Foreign Office civil servant, Olly Robbins, contradicted Downing Street's claims regarding the vetting process, leading to accusations that the Prime Minister misled Parliament.
- The Foreign Office took the unusual step of overruling the recommendation to deny Mandelson clearance, despite the Prime Minister having already announced his appointment.
- Concerns about Mandelson's business links to China and his past association with Jeffrey Epstein were reportedly flagged during the vetting process.
- Downing Street insists the Prime Minister was unaware of the failed vetting until recently, and a government spokesperson confirmed an investigation into why clearance was granted is underway.
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