Labour grandee advises PM to build bridges with Elon Musk and Nigel Farage
In a surprising turn of events, Lord Peter Mandelson, the frontrunner to be the next US Ambassador from Britain, has called on Sir Keir Starmer to put an end to his supposed "feud" with Elon Musk and instead, embrace the billionaire's expertise. Mandelson also suggested that Nigel Farage could play a role in helping establish connections between the UK government, Donald Trump, and Republican advisors.
Listen to the experts, urges Lord Peter Mandelson
Speaking on the Times Radio podcast How To Win An Election, Lord Mandelson emphasized the importance of not ignoring figures like Elon Musk. He stated, "It would be unwise, in my view, for Britain to ignore Elon Musk. You cannot pursue these feuds. You can't afford to do it. We should try and kick it into touch as soon as possible."
Rebuilding relationships with the US President-elect
Following Donald Trump's recent election victory, Lord Mandelson highlighted that there have been offers from the Reform Leader to assist Labour in improving its strained relationship with the incoming US President. However, these offers were met with dismissive responses from government ministers. Shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Pat McFadden, even conveyed that the UK would focus on developing its own relationships.
Potential candidates for the top diplomat role in Washington
Lord Mandelson is one of the names being considered to succeed Dame Karen Pierce as Britain's top diplomat in Washington. Other contenders for the role include Baroness Valorie Amos, diplomat Cathy Ashton, and David Miliband. Dame Karen's posting is expected to end in January 2025, with the possibility of an extension if the Prime Minister deems it necessary.
