Robbins fired a blockbuster letter at the Foreign Affairs Committee before his appearance. Some of the main points:
- No 10 was dismissive of the DV process throughout as a result
- UKSV saw Mandelson as “borderline,” leaning towards denial; risks were not Epstein-related
- FCDO, not UKSV, is the DV decision-maker; FCDO security assessed the risks as manageable and granted clearance; Robbins approved
- PM’s statement that proper process was followed was correct
- Ministers were told only the final outcome, per longstanding guidance agreed with CO and No 10
- Robbins chose not to request UKSV documentation after Mandelson withdrew, deferring to normal practice
