Cabinet Ministers Raise Alarms Over Starmer's Decision to Sack Olly Robbins
In a tense cabinet meeting, multiple ministers voiced significant concerns about Prime Minister Keir Starmer's abrupt dismissal of Olly Robbins, the top Foreign Office official, according to government sources. The move, linked to the Peter Mandelson vetting scandal, has sparked fears of damaging relations with the civil service.
Ministers Warn Against Alienating Civil Service
Several senior figures intervened during the discussion, with Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy cautioning against fostering a divisive "them and us" mentality between ministers and officials. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood questioned the justification for sacking Robbins, who failed to inform Starmer about Mandelson's failed vetting but was later praised as an outstanding civil servant.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Chancellor Rachel Reeves were among three others who urged the prime minister to avoid conflicts with officials and instead keep them "on side." Starmer reportedly agreed with this stance, but the debate highlighted deep unease within the government.
Fallout from Mandelson Vetting Scandal
The controversy stems from the Guardian's revelation that Peter Mandelson was appointed as Washington ambassador despite failing security clearance checks. Robbins was sacked hours after the report emerged, and he confirmed to MPs that he had not relayed the vetting advice to Downing Street.
One senior cabinet minister argued that Robbins should have been suspended pending a full investigation, rather than dismissed outright. This sentiment reflects broader concerns about Starmer's judgment and the potential exacerbation of tensions with Whitehall.
Prime Minister's Response and Broader Implications
According to Downing Street readouts, Starmer acknowledged Robbins' "error of judgment" but emphasized his integrity and professionalism, praising the broader civil service for their hard work and public duty. However, the scandal has reignited questions about Starmer's leadership, with some Labour sources suggesting he is on "borrowed time" and facing a "holding pattern" of 12 to 18 months in office.
Former Whitehall chiefs, including Simon McDonald and Mark Sedwill, have called for Robbins' reinstatement, criticizing the prime minister's rushed judgment. The pressure continues as MPs scrutinize the Mandelson appointment, with upcoming testimonies from key officials like Cat Little and Morgan McSweeney expected to fuel further debate.
The incident underscores ongoing challenges in balancing political accountability with civil service relations, casting a shadow over Starmer's administration amid calls for greater transparency and cohesion.
