What have we learned from release of files relating to former peer’s appointment – and sacking – as UK ambassador to Washington?
We now have the first tranche of documents promised by the government connected to the appointment of Peter Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to Washington – 147 pages from a mass of information believed to total in the hundreds of thousands.
Mandelson has previously denied any wrongdoing, and his lawyers have said he does not intend to make any further statement at this time. Here is what we have learned from the files – and what we do not yet know.
The individual’s contract states an entitlement to three months’ notice or payment in lieu of notice. On advice of his counsel, the individual has stated this is insufficient, particularly as they believe the actions of HMG have permanently damaged their employability.
There has already been some controversy about the fact that Mandelson was given a £75,000 payoff. The documents show that he sought much more – £547,000, which would have been the total pay he was due for the entire ambassadorial contract. Mandelson had, they added, sought advice from a KC specialising in employment law.
