UK Foreign Office Chief Removed Following Review of Peter Mandelson's Security Vetting
Sir Olly Robbins was removed from his position as the top Foreign Office civil servant following disclosures about the vetting process for former US ambassador Peter Mandelson. Security officials had recommended denying Mandelson's clearance due to high concerns, yet it was granted. Robbins is set to testify before a parliamentary committee next week.
Photo: Samuel Hagger / UnsplashLONDON - Sir Olly Robbins was ousted from his role as the chief Foreign Office official on Thursday night, a move tied to the handling of security vetting for Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador. BBC News reported that in Mandelson's vetting, officials indicated the highest level of concern by ticking red boxes and explicitly recommended denying his security clearance.
The vetting report returned a 'no' verdict on granting him access to sensitive government material.
The government published the UK Security Vetting's decision template on Friday, revealing that security officials indicate low, moderate, or high levels of concern using green, yellow, or red boxes.
The template includes recommendations to approve, approve with risk management, or deny clearance. Peter Mandelson was granted security clearance despite these vetting concerns. Vetting of government employees and appointees is carried out by a government agency overseen by the Cabinet Office.
Peter Mandelson was announced as the government's choice to be US ambassador in December 2024.
Developed vetting for him began that same month. He formally took up the post in February 2025 but was removed in September 2025. Further details about his past ties with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein came to light that same month.
Sir Olly Robbins had been the most senior civil servant at the Foreign Office for two weeks when Mandelson was announced for the Washington role.
He is expected to appear before the Foreign Affairs Committee on Tuesday. Dame Emily Thornberry, who chairs the Foreign Affairs Committee, wrote to Robbins on Friday requesting his appearance. Cabinet Secretary Antonia Romeo found out about Mandelson's vetting failure in late March.
Downing Street released an official account of the meeting on 15 April during which the prime minister was informed about Mandelson's vetting.
Lord Simon McDonald served as permanent secretary between 2015 and 2020. Peter Mandelson was seen walking his dog in London on Friday.
