"Barton stated that there was absolutely pressure to get the vetting done quickly, emphasizing that it was clear to everyone in the department that expediency was prioritized over thoroughness."
"He noted that it was unusual to announce the appointment before the vetting had been completed, stating, 'The normal order is vetting then announcement.'"
"Barton expressed that he was well aware of the toxic nature of the Epstein connection, reflecting on his understanding of American politics and the implications of such associations."
Sir Philip Barton expressed concerns about Peter Mandelson's connections to Jeffrey Epstein and noted significant pressure from Downing Street to expedite the vetting process. He stated that Number 10 appeared uninterested in the vetting surrounding Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador. Barton was unaware of the appointment until shortly before the announcement and indicated that the usual protocol of completing vetting before an announcement was not followed. He believed his concerns were shared by the national security adviser but felt there was no opportunity to voice them.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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