Lord Mandelson or David Miliband ‘could possibly be subsequent US ambassador’

Rumours are swirling that Keir Starmer could make Lord Mandelson or David Miliband the next ambassador to the US.

There had been claims that Rishi Sunak‘s national security adviser Sir Tim Barrow was in line to take over the plum job from Dame Karen Pierce.

However, according to the i Sir Tim has now been told by the Labour administration that he will not be appointed to the post in Washington.

Instead there is speculation that New Labour architect Lord Mandelson, a key ally of Sir Keir, or Mr Miliband – who has been running an aid charity in the States for more than a decade – could be the choice.

The diplomatic role will be critical whether Donald Trump or Joe Biden – or indeed another Democrat – winds up winning the White House in November. 

Rumours are swirling that Keir Starmer could make Lord Mandelson or David Miliband the next ambassador to the US

There had been claims that Rishi Sunak ‘s national security adviser Sir Tim Barrow (pictured) was in line to take over the plum job from Dame Karen Pierce

there is speculation that New Labour architect Lord Mandelson, a key ally of Sir Keir (pictured), or Mr Miliband – who has been running an aid charity in the States for more than a decade – could be the choice

The peer is well connected around the globe, and could be a natural fit.  

But Mr Miliband set tongues wagging earlier this year with a trip to the UK.

The ex-Cabinet minister made a series of high-profile appearances and speeches – and even found time to play a football game with political insiders.

A Downing Street source said a recruitment process was underway and the government would not be commenting. 

Mr Miliband’s spokesman said in May: ‘This is an invention because David is focused on his current job and has not been discussing a job in Washington with ‘diplomatic sources’.

‘His contributions to debate in the UK reflect longstanding commitments as a concerned British citizen.’