A former top UK foreign ministry official said he faced “constant pressure” from Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office to fast-track Peter Mandelson’s appointment as U.S. ambassador, intensifying a political row. Olly Robbins told MPs there was a “very strong expectation” Mandelson be sent to Washington quickly, describing “frequent” calls from Downing Street. He also said vetting advisers viewed the appointment as a borderline case. Starmer has admitted the decision was “wrong” but blamed officials for failing to pass on concerns that could have blocked the appointment. #UK #Politics #Mandelson #KeirStarmer #DowningStreet #BreakingNews