UK PM Starmer Admits Appointing Former US Ambassador Was 'Mistake'

Gate News message, April 20 — UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer acknowledged in Parliament on April 20 that his decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as British ambassador to the United States was an "error in judgment." Starmer stated, "I should not have appointed Mandelson, and I take responsibility for that decision." The admission comes as Starmer faces mounting pressure over the appointment.

Mandelson was removed from the post after revelations of his close association with deceased American financier Jeffrey Epstein. The former ambassador had not passed a security clearance before taking office, yet still received Starmer's approval for the role.

Starmer appointed Mandelson as US ambassador in February 2025, but Mandelson served in the position for only seven months before being dismissed due to his ties to Epstein.