Keir Starmer names his choose to exchange Peter Mandelson as UK’s Trump whisperer
Top diplomat Dr Christian Turner will replace Lord Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to Washington, after the Labour peer was sacked over revelations about his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein
Keir Starmer last night announced his pick to replace Peter Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to the US.
Christian Turner, a top diplomat and former Political Director at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCDO) will be our next man in Washington DC, the government announced last night.
The government announced in May that Dr Turner had been appointed to be the UK’s Ambassador to the United Nations.
But last night No10 announced he’d been shuffled from New York to Washington DC to be Britain’s next Trump whisperer.
It comes after Lord Mandelson was sacked as Ambassador to Washington following revelations about his friendship with the late financier paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.
A career diplomat, Dr Turner was British High Commissioner to Pakstan from December 2019 to January 2023. Before that he served as an international affairs advisor and Deputy National Security Advisor under Theresa May’s Premiership.
Keir Starmer said: “I’m delighted that Christian Turner has been appointed to be British Ambassador to the United States of America.
“The United Kingdom and United States have a very special relationship, and Christian’s extensive experience as an outstanding diplomat will support this uniquely close bond and ensure it continues to flourish.
“I warmly congratulate him as he starts his work to further build our strong economic and security ties and deliver for the British people.”
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “Christian Turner brings exceptional diplomatic experience and deep understanding to this vital role. His leadership in strengthening partnerships across the world will be invaluable as we work together to uphold the UK’s crucial special relationship with the United States. I look forward to working closely with him to advance our shared values and interests.”
Dr Turner said: “I am honoured to be nominated to serve as the UK’s Ambassador to the USA. Our two countries share an historic partnership rooted in common values, shared security and deep economic ties. At a pivotal time for the transatlantic relationship, I look forward to working with President Trump’s administration, and leaders in Congress, business and society to strengthen that bond in the years ahead.”
