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McSweeney Denies Bullying Over Mandelson Appointment, Urges Vetting Reform

4/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Morgan McSweeney denied bullying civil servants over Mandelson’s ambassador appointment at a Kyiv forum.
Accusers said McSweeney told officials to “Just f---ing approve him,” a claim he rejected.
Sir Olly Robbins said the private office created pressure and constant chasing during the vetting.
Downing Street denied intimidation, saying update requests differ from bullying.
McSweeney accepted responsibility for advising Sir Keir Starmer and called for a vetting overhaul.

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Story summary

Morgan McSweeney denied bullying civil servants over Mandelson’s ambassador appointment at a Kyiv forum.
Accusers said McSweeney told officials to “Just f---ing approve him,” a claim he rejected.
Sir Olly Robbins said the private office created pressure and constant chasing during the vetting.
Downing Street denied intimidation, saying update requests differ from bullying.
McSweeney accepted responsibility for advising Sir Keir Starmer and called for a vetting overhaul.