London, United Kingdom – Web Desk: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has ordered an inquiry into the appointment of Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the United States, admitting uncertainty over how the decision was approved.
Speaking in Parliament, Starmer said the appointment should not have gone ahead, citing concerns linked to Mandelson’s alleged association with the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. He acknowledged a failure in the vetting process and said officials had been directed to investigate who authorized the decision and on what grounds.
“I take responsibility for this decision,” Starmer told lawmakers, adding that a full review would be conducted to determine accountability.
The controversy has intensified political pressure on the government, with opposition figures criticizing the handling of the appointment. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch accused the prime minister of deflecting responsibility and called for his resignation.
Tensions escalated further during the parliamentary session when lawmakers Zarah Sultana and Lee Anderson were removed after accusing the prime minister of misleading Parliament.
The incident has raised broader concerns over transparency, political accountability, and the integrity of senior diplomatic appointments in the United Kingdom.
