Olly Robbins, a former senior civil servant who played a key role in Brexit negotiations, has initiated legal action against the Foreign Office following his dismissal in April. The decision to terminate his employment came after a controversy surrounding the vetting process for Lord Mandelson, who was being considered for the UK's ambassadorial post to the United States.
Robbins, who served as the head of the UK's diplomatic service and was appointed to his Foreign Office role in early 2025, stated that he is bringing legal action "reluctantly." He indicated that the proceedings would have been unnecessary had the prime minister offered an apology for what Robbins described as a "mistake" and made amends for the distress and costs incurred by him and his family.
The FDA union, representing Robbins, has argued that his dismissal was based on a "grievous misunderstanding" of government vetting procedures. According to the union's statement, Robbins was not obligated to inform ministers about the vetting process but rather to maintain its confidentiality. They contend that the dismissal lacked any fair procedure.
Robbins previously informed MPs that he had not personally reviewed the vetting assessment documentation for Lord Mandelson from UK Security Vetting (UKSV). Instead, he stated he received an oral briefing. During this briefing, he was informed that Mandelson was considered a "borderline case" but that the Foreign Office could proceed with clearance under "appropriate risk management."
The FDA also plans to challenge the prime minister's legal authority to dismiss Robbins from his position as head of the diplomatic service.