Mandelson tipped for US ambassador if Harris wins election

Lord Peter Mandelson is being reportedly considered for the position of Britain’s new US ambassador if Kamala Harris wins the American presidential election against Donald Trump. Sources indicate that Mandelson has made a strong case for the role, which Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer views as a crucial appointment.

A Whitehall insider described Mandelson as a significant figure within the Labour Party, possessing substantial political influence and foreign policy experience. It is anticipated that Sir Keir will make the appointment after the November election, with Mandelson as the leading candidate if Harris is elected. David Miliband, former Foreign Secretary, is also mentioned as a potential candidate.

Uncertainty remains about the Prime Minister’s choice should Trump secure a second term, with analysts highlighting the ambassador’s critical political role requiring specific expertise. This decision is considered one of Sir Keir’s most significant in his initial year as Prime Minister, likely influencing UK-US relations.

Mandelson is among a select group of contenders for the ambassadorial role. He is recognised for his political acumen and connections with influential individuals, making him a strong candidate, according to sources. The appointment process is expected to commence post-November.

Mandelson, an influential figure in New Labour and a close ally of Sir Keir, is well-connected globally, suggesting a natural fit for the role, according to analysts. Meanwhile, Miliband, who has led an aid charity in the US for over ten years, recently made notable appearances in the UK, sparking speculation about his potential candidacy.

Miliband’s spokesperson dismissed the speculation, stating that Miliband remains committed to his current role and has not discussed a position in Washington. Miliband’s contributions to UK debates reflect his enduring commitments as a concerned citizen.

Previously, there were claims that Sir Tim Barrow, Rishi Sunak’s national security adviser, was a candidate for the US ambassador role. However, reports indicate that the Labour administration has informed Sir Tim he will not be considered for the Washington post.

In addition to the ambassadorial role, Mandelson is also reportedly a candidate for the chancellorship of the University of Oxford, following Lord Chris Patten’s retirement. This position, for the first time in Oxford’s history, will be elected online, with over 250,000 alumni and former staff eligible to vote. Lord William Hague is another contender for this role.

Mandelson, a former EU trade commissioner and Labour business secretary, plans to step down from his position at Manchester Metropolitan University in January, a role he has held since 2016.

These developments come as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer faces scrutiny over the ‘passes for glasses’ controversy involving his government. Questions have been raised about why Lord Alli, a significant donor to Sir Keir, received a Downing Street security pass. Sir Keir defended the pass, stating that Lord Alli was involved in transition work for the government. However, the approval process for this arrangement remains unclear.

Sir Keir also dismissed allegations of cronyism related to party staffers and donors receiving top civil service positions, rejecting calls for an inquiry.