King Charles ‘warned Keir Starmer against appointing Peter Mandelson as US ambassador’ in latest humiliation for the PM
King Charles ‘warned Keir Starmer against appointing Peter Mandelson as US ambassador’ in latest humiliation for the PM
Royal Caution Over U.S. Ambassador Nomination
Keir Starmer faces renewed scrutiny following his decision to name Peter Mandelson as Britain’s U.S. ambassador, according to claims that King Charles expressed reservations about the choice.
His Majesty reportedly drafted two notes voicing his apprehensions regarding the selection of the contentious peer for the prestigious role in Washington, D.C. These documents have sparked debate about the transparency of the King’s communications with government ministers related to the appointment.
Documents and Public Scrutiny
The Foreign Office letter seeking the King’s endorsement of Mandelson’s nomination was disclosed as part of an initial set of files released last month. This marked the first public unveiling of correspondence concerning the peer’s diplomatic role.
A second note from Buckingham Palace, also attributed to the King, further highlighted his concerns. Though the specifics remain unclear, the documents suggest a level of hesitation about Mandelson’s suitability for the post.
Private Eye reported the note asked a question along the lines of: ‘Do you really think that’s wise?’
Mandelson’s Tenure and Resignations
Peter Mandelson was confirmed as U.S. ambassador in December 2024, yet he was abruptly removed from the position in September 2023 after new details surfaced about his ties to paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. This resignation marked the third time the former New Labour architect had been dismissed from a government role.
Previously, Mandelson had exited Tony Blair’s Cabinet twice due to scandals. The recent controversy has led to questions about whether his past resignations or Epstein connections will be included in the upcoming release of documents.
Investigations and Legal Context
Prosecutors are offering early investigative guidance to the police as they probe Mandelson’s and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s links to Epstein. The former Duke of York and Mandelson were arrested last month on charges of misconduct in public office linked to their associations with the paedophile financier.
Lord Mandelson has pledged to assist with the ongoing inquiry, asserting he has no legal violations or self-serving motives in the Epstein-related documents. He has also expressed regret over his friendship with Epstein. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor similarly denies any wrongdoing tied to the case.
Buckingham Palace’s Response
Buckingham Palace has stated it cannot comment on the matter, leaving the details of the King’s concerns to be explored through the documents set for release. The next tranche of files is expected to shed more light on the royal input, though some information may remain confidential for reasons tied to the police investigation or diplomatic sensitivities.
