It’s not the best start for the UK’s new Ambassador to the US, Lord Mandelson, who has been NFI’d to Trump’s inauguration next week, according to top scoop hunter Andrew Pierce. The UK will instead be represented by outgoing Ambassador Dame Karen Pierce…
Government sources are citing protocol over the decision on who represents the UK – but the incoming Ambassador would usually be given a seat. It’s going to be a tough round of parties and receptions for Mandelson too, if he manages to get to DC, as they are populated by big beasts like Farage, and Trump allies such as Chris LaCivita, who called Mandelson a “moron” who should “stay home”. Wait until you hear what Trump’s team call him in private…
In Henry Mance’s piece today for the FT, lunching with Nigel Farage:
“Splendido!” Farage says, when the drinks arrive; I suppose it’s a step to European reconciliation. We clink glasses, and he lights the first of two back-to-back Benson & Hedges. A few minutes later, we’re back downstairs. “Are you drinking? Good.” He orders a glass of Sauvignon blanc for each of us — not a bottle, “because it’s Lent” — followed by a bottle of claret, to have with our meal. They say Farage drinks less than he used to. They say a lot of things.”