Mandelson sacked after Epstein revelations; Starmer scrambles to pick his US successor

Peter Mandelson has been sacked as Britain’s ambassador to the United States after revelations of his attempts to help convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein secure an early release from jail.

The decision by Prime Minister Keir Starmer ends days of mounting speculation over Mandelson’s position. Downing Street confirmed on Thursday that James Roscoe, the deputy head of mission in Washington, will serve as acting ambassador while a permanent replacement is chosen. The timing is urgent: Donald Trump is preparing for a state visit, and Britain cannot afford uncertainty at its most critical diplomatic post.

Mandelson, long one of Westminster’s most controversial power brokers, had come under intense pressure after it emerged he advised Epstein to fight for early release. His friendship with the disgraced financier has cast a long shadow, and Starmer’s swift dismissal reflects a desire to draw a firm line under the affair.

Attention now turns to who will fill one of the most influential roles in British diplomacy. The contenders range from seasoned diplomats to heavyweight political figures—each bringing distinct advantages and risks.

Karen Pierce, Britain’s ambassador to Washington during Trump’s first presidency, is seen as a strong candidate. She earned the respect of Republicans and built deep connections in the US capital. Although she now serves in the Balkans, her familiarity with Washington makes her an attractive choice if Starmer wants an experienced hand without controversy.

David Miliband, the former foreign secretary and brother of current energy secretary Ed Miliband, has lived in the US for over a decade as president of the International Rescue Committee. While often tipped for high-profile roles, some in Whitehall doubt Starmer would risk appointing a political figure with such a high profile—particularly under a Republican White House.

Christian Turner, currently slated to become Britain’s ambassador to the United Nations, is seen by insiders as the frontrunner. With a long Foreign Office career and past experience as Theresa May’s international affairs adviser, Turner combines diplomatic gravitas with political nous.

Another heavyweight is Richard Moore, the outgoing head of MI6. His deep intelligence ties in Washington and the Pentagon could prove invaluable at a time of global turbulence. Moore also knows the Foreign Office well, having previously served as its director general for political affairs.

Catherine Ashton, a Labour peer and former EU foreign policy chief, is admired for her diplomatic achievements in Iran and Kosovo. However, she has fewer current ties with the US administration and may be seen as a less immediate fit.

Unlikely but notable is George Osborne, the former Conservative chancellor. Despite reports that No 10 sounded him out, Osborne is deeply unpopular within Labour ranks, and Mandelson’s downfall has made Starmer wary of appointing another figure seen as divisive.

Valerie Amos, a Labour peer and respected diplomat, is considered discreet and professional. She served as international development secretary under Tony Blair and later at the UN. Like Miliband, she might have been a stronger choice under a Democratic administration.

From within the Foreign Office, Lindsay Croisdale-Appleby, currently ambassador to the EU, is regarded as a safe pair of hands. Fluent in Spanish and experienced in Brussels, he would be a steady option with broad diplomatic credentials.

Lastly, Barbara Woodward, Britain’s outgoing UN representative, has also been mentioned. Her long career includes a stint as ambassador to China, though critics accuse her of being too conciliatory toward Beijing.

For Starmer, the choice is fraught with symbolism. Mandelson’s scandal has highlighted the dangers of appointing politically connected insiders with personal baggage. The prime minister must now balance trust, experience and political optics as he selects a figure to face Washington—and to face Donald Trump