Christian Turner has been appointed UK Ambassador to the US after Lord Mandelson was sacked over the Jeffrey Epstein scandal in September
Keir Starmer has finally revealed his choice for British ambassador to the US, months after dismissing Peter Mandelson over the Jeffrey Epstein controversy.
The PM has this evening named seasoned diplomat Christian Turner as his new chief representative in the US, during a pivotal period for Anglo-American ties.
Mr Turner has dedicated his career to working in comparable roles, presently serving as Britain’s ambassador to the United Nations.
He previously held the position of political director at the Foreign Office, with his former department spending months urging Sir Keir to select a seasoned professional to succeed Lord Mandelson.
The position has remained empty since September after the dismissal of the Labour veteran due to his connections with the disgraced paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, reports the Express.
The breaking point came when American legislators released new email correspondence detailing their association, showing that Lord Mandelson had defended the New York financier’s innocence following his initial conviction for child abuse.
His dismissal triggered political chaos for Sir Keir, with Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch claiming it demonstrated him failing “yet another key test of leadership”.
Announcing Turner’s appointment, 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.”
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.”