Allies of Olly Robbins make Starmer claim after being sacked over Mandelson vetting row

Politics
23 Apr 2026 • 6:41 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • Allies of Sir Olly Robbins claim he was sacked by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer without being asked to explain his handling of the Lord Peter Mandelson vetting scandal.
  • Sir Keir Starmer told MPs he asked Sir Olly for an explanation and did not accept it, leading to his dismissal, a claim disputed by sources close to Sir Olly.
  • Kemi Badenoch, the Tory leader, stated the 'whole thing stinks' and suggested Sir Keir would have misled MPs if Sir Olly's account is true, accusing the Prime Minister of seeking a scapegoat.
  • Sir Olly Robbins implied potential legal action regarding his sacking during a Foreign Affairs Select Committee hearing, refusing to confirm the Prime Minister's version of events.
  • The controversy intensified with a Labour MP calling for Sir Keir's resignation and revelations that Downing Street sought an ambassadorial role for Matthew Doyle, who has since been suspended by Labour.

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