Key facts
- Lindy Cameron is the first woman to head the UK Foreign Office.
- Cameron previously served as the high commissioner to India.
- She replaces Olly Robbins, who was dismissed.
- Robbins was dismissed after questions arose about his handling of Peter Mandelson's vetting process.
- Peter Mandelson failed security vetting for the US ambassador role in January 2025.
- Ed Miliband praised Cameron's experience in diplomacy, development, and national security.
Lindy Cameron has been appointed the first ever female head of the UK Foreign Office, taking on the role of permanent undersecretary at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. Cameron, previously the high commissioner to India, replaces Olly Robbins, who was dismissed from his post.
Robbins' dismissal followed revelations that Peter Mandelson failed security vetting in January 2025 for the role of ambassador to the US. Reports indicate Robbins knew about Mandelson's vetting failure but did not immediately forward the information to ministers. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband stated that Cameron brings extensive experience in diplomacy, development, and national security, and has a reputation for dynamic leadership.
Cameron's appointment occurs amid broader changes in senior civil service positions. Cat Little is moving from leading the Cabinet Office to become permanent secretary of the Department for Business and Trade, and Tom Riordan is taking over as the head of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. The Foreign Office has recently faced job cuts and scrutiny over its handling of the Mandelson affair.