The key facts
- Sir Olly Robbins dismissed in April 2026 after the Guardian published reports on the Mandelson vetting
- An out-of-court settlement with the government was reached; the amount is not disclosed
- FDA: the dismissal is a 'scapegoating' to cover up Starmer's mistake
Settlement with the Government
Sir Olly Robbins, former permanent under-secretary at the UK Foreign Office, has reached an out-of-court settlement with the government after being dismissed from his post as the department's most senior official. The dismissal followed the scandal over granting security clearance to Lord Mandelson for the post of ambassador to the US. Robbins had sought a judicial review of the dismissal decision; the settlement amount is not disclosed. The government said Robbins 'had an outstanding career in public service spanning three decades' and declined to comment further on personnel matters.
Background to the Scandal
Lord Mandelson was announced as ambassador to the US in December 2024 before an enhanced vetting process was carried out and formally took up the post in February 2025 after receiving clearance. Seven months later he was dismissed after new information emerged about his former friendship with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In April, after the Guardian published reports that clearance had been granted despite concerns from vetting officials, Robbins was dismissed. Prime Minister Starmer said he was 'furious' that he had not been informed, and told MPs: 'I asked him, and I did not accept his explanation. So I sacked him.'
Robbins's Position and the Union's Reaction
Robbins defended his role, arguing that vetting processes must 'remain absolutely confidential'. According to him, he did not see the UK Security Vetting documentation on Mandelson but received an oral briefing in which vetters described the candidacy as a 'borderline case', permitting clearance with 'appropriate risk management'. The FDA union, which represented him in court, called Robbins a 'scapegoat' covering up Starmer's 'error of judgement'. FDA general secretary Dave Penman said the case had damaged trust between officials and ministers, and called on the government to clarify questions about ministers' involvement in the vetting process. Robbins thanked colleagues, friends and the FDA and said he 'looks forward to the next chapter of his life'. He previously held a number of senior positions and was the government's lead official in the Brexit negotiations.
Image source, PA Media
Sir Olly Robbins was sacked as the top official in the Foreign Office in April
