LIVE: Former UK foreign office official questioned over Mandelson’s vetting process

Excluded from decision-making

Barton was informed of Mandelson's appointment on December 15, 2024 as a finalized prime ministerial decision with no prior consultation, despite being head of the diplomatic service.

Pre-clearance access granted

Mandelson was given access to classified briefings and Foreign Office facilities before completing Developed Vetting clearance, justified by the compressed timeline before Trump's inauguration.

Vetting status confusion

At the time of announcement, only 'due diligence' had been completed rather than full developed vetting, which Barton acknowledged was insufficient for the role's access to UK secrets.

Cabinet Office initially waived DV requirements

Barton was initially told that as a member of the House of Lords, Mandelson was deemed a 'fit and proper person' who did not require developed vetting, a position the Foreign Office found 'odd and insufficient.'

Borderline clearance approved

Mandelson reportedly received a green DV pass on the same day that officials were considering recommending against his clearance, creating a situation where he had access while his vetting was deemed borderline.

Epstein association concerns

Barton flagged worries that Mandelson's publicly known links to Jeffrey Epstein could become politically toxic in Washington, particularly given Epstein's prominence in US election discourse.

Trump transition blindsided

The Trump team reportedly felt blindsided by the short-notice announcement and had previously expressed satisfaction with incumbent ambassador Karen Pierce, creating diplomatic friction.

No mechanism to voice concerns

Barton testified there was 'no space for dialogue' about suitability risks, characterizing Number 10 as 'uninterested' in security risks rather than seeking rigorous vetting.

Explicit denial of swearing allegations

Barton categorically denied media reports that Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney swore at him during a phone call, stating no such one-on-one conversation ever occurred and he had 'racked his brains' to verify this.

Pressure for speed over rigor

While denying specific verbal abuse, Barton acknowledged an atmosphere focused on rapid implementation rather than risk assessment, with officials prioritizing practical steps to meet the inauguration deadline.