Long-serving diplomat chosen as new US ambassador to replace Mandelson

Sir Keir Starmer has chosen a long-serving diplomat as Britain's new US ambassador as he opted for a 'safe' choice to replace the disgraced Lord Mandelson.

Dr Christian Turner will become the UK's most senior diplomat in America as he fills a role that had been left vacant for the past three months.

He had previously been picked to become Britain's permanent representative to the UN in New York, but had not yet taken up the post.

Dr Turner was previously political director at the Foreign Office. He is also a former British high commissioner to Pakistan.

Between 2017 to 2019, he served as then-prime minister Theresa May's international affairs adviser and deputy national security adviser in Downing Street.

Dr Turner will be viewed as a 'safe' choice for dealing with Donald Trump's White House following the chaotic sacking of Lord Mandelson in September.

The Labour peer was fired by the Prime Minister over his links to Jeffrey Epstein, after emails revealed the depth of his relationship with the paedophile financier.

Sir Keir, who handpicked Lord Mandelson as US ambassador, took the action after it emerged how he sent supportive messages even as Epstein faced jail for sex crimes. 

The Government said the emails showed 'the depth and extent' Lord Mandelson's relationship with Epstein was 'materially different from that known at the time of his appointment'.

The PM had defended Lord Mandelson until the emergence of the emails. Lord Mandelson has said he regretted continuing his association with Epstein.

Dr Turner has been appointed as Lord Mandelson's replacement by King Charles after the PM approved the recommendation of Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper.

He is said to have beaten Nigel Casey, the UK's ambassador to Russia, and Varun Chandra, the PM's business adviser, in being chosen for the role.  

Sir Keir said: 'The UK and US 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.'

Ms Cooper said Dr 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 US, she added.

Dr Turner said he was 'honoured' to be nominated for the Washington DC role, adding: '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.'