Mandelson’s bid in Washington under scrutiny as Donald Trump’s team looks at the choice of ambassador to the UK
Downing Street remains hopeful that Lord Mandelson will get the go-ahead to become Britain’s next ambassador to Washington, despite reports that the incoming Donald Trump administration has raised questions about his “political baggage”.
Mandelson, a former Labor Cabinet minister and European trade commissioner, is awaiting final approval for the prestigious post. Dame Karen Pierce, the current ambassador to the UK, will continue to represent the government at President Trump’s inauguration while the US delegation makes a decision.
A leading figure in Republican Overseas, Greg Swenson, admitted he was concerned about Mandelson’s association and past disagreements with the Republican Party. He highlighted the “political differences” between Labor in the UK and the resurgent Republicans in the US, but expected the two sides to work together once the nomination was confirmed.
Mandelson’s Downing Street selection has been questioned by some within Trump’s team, with critics pointing to his ties to China. Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, suggested that Keir Starmer would “get off to a very bad start” with the Trump administration by affecting New Labour’s top figure.
However, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Darren Jones and others in Number 10 met Mandelson, hailing him as a “globally respected chief executive”. A peer seeking to temper criticism of President Trump — he once called him “disrespectful” — recently highlighted the president’s “direct thoughts on talking and making a deal” in a Fox News article.
Political insiders note that the final decision on any ambassadorial appointment rests with the White House. Yet there is confidence in Westminster that London and Washington share an important economic strategy to maintain a strong relationship, meaning Mandelson’s extensive experience in international trade could prove valuable in navigating the next phase of UK-US relations.
