The government will want to appoint a new ambassador rapidly. Not much chance of a political appointment. Insiders in government are tipping the following names to Guido this morning. Runners and riders…
Karen Pierce: Mandelson’s Trump-whispering predecesor has just started a job as Special Envoy to the Western Balkans. Pierce could take up a temporary ambassadorship to steady the ship…
Jonathan Black: The Deputy National Security Adviser is keen for a departure from the Cabinet Office.
Jonathan Powell: Current National Security Adviser. Will be a candidate…
David Miliband: Will be even more keen than last time after his lucrative international work has had its funding cut by both Trump and Starmer.
Lindsay Croisedale-Appleby: EU ambassador.
Martin Harris: Current ambassador to Ukraine.
Richard Moore: C is just leaving service at SIS. Nice timing…
Tim Barrow: Now in the Lords, former National Security Adviser. Tipped for the job last year when Pierce was leaving…
George Osborne: He did organise JD Vance’s BBQ this summer…
A decision will have to be made with the state visit hurtling down the track. Phase 2…