Keir Starmer has selected Christian Turner to take over as the new UK ambassador to the United States, replacing Peter Mandelson. Turner, a seasoned diplomat and former Political Director at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCDO), has been appointed by the government to serve in Washington DC.
Earlier in May, Dr. Turner was named as the UK’s Ambassador to the United Nations. However, a recent announcement from No10 revealed that he has been reassigned from New York to Washington DC to assume the role of Britain’s key representative in dealings with the US government.
This decision follows the removal of Lord Mandelson as Ambassador to Washington due to revelations concerning his association with the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Dr. Turner, a career diplomat, held the position of British High Commissioner to Pakistan from December 2019 to January 2023. Prior to this role, he served as an international affairs advisor and Deputy National Security Advisor during Theresa May’s term as Prime Minister.
Expressing his approval of the appointment, Keir Starmer stated, “I’m pleased that Christian Turner has been chosen to be the British Ambassador to the United States of America. The UK and US share a special relationship, and Christian’s extensive diplomatic background will bolster this close bond and ensure its continued growth.”
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper commended Turner’s diplomatic expertise, emphasizing his role in enhancing global partnerships crucial for maintaining the UK’s special relationship with the US. She looks forward to collaborating closely with him to advance shared interests and values.
In response to his nomination, Dr. Turner expressed his gratitude, saying, “I am privileged to be designated as the UK’s Ambassador to the USA. Our nations have a historic partnership based on mutual values, security cooperation, and strong economic connections. During this critical juncture in the transatlantic relationship, I am eager to collaborate with the Trump administration, Congress, business leaders, and society to strengthen this bond in the years to come.”