UK names Christian Turner as US ambassador, replacing Peter Mandelson

Downing Street has confirmed that the UK has chosen Christian Turner as its new ambassador to the US.

Turner spent his nearly 30-year career working in Whitehall and the Foreign Office.

He will now be the person Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has tasked with establishing links with the Trump administration.

Previous ambassador Peter Mandelson was sacked by Starmer after evidence emerged, including emails and photographs, showing his ongoing relationship with pedophile Jeffery Epstein.

Lord Mandelson has repeatedly said he regrets his relationship with Epstein, who died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking offences.

Turner said she was “honored” to be nominated for the role.

“At a pivotal time for the transatlantic relationship, I look forward to working with President Trump’s administration and leaders in Congress, business and society to strengthen this bond in the years ahead,” he added.

In a statement released by the Foreign Office, Starmer said: “The UK and the US have a very special relationship and Christian’s extensive experience as an outstanding diplomat will underpin this uniquely close bond and ensure it continues to thrive.”

Turner’s previous roles included political director at the Foreign Office, British High Commissioner in Pakistan and Foreign Office Director for the Middle East and North Africa. He also previously worked as Private Secretary to the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street.

Before entering government, he worked in television documentaries.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said Turner would bring “exceptional diplomatic experience and deep understanding” to the role.