The appointment of Britain's next ambassador to the United States has been officially suspended due to pre-election rules.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has reportedly nominated Sir Tim Barrow, currently his national security adviser, for the role, prompting backlash from Labour ministers.

These officials accused the prime minister of attempting to rush the appointment before the upcoming election.

The Foreign Office has stated that all significant appointments are frozen during the pre-election period, as stipulated by civil service guidelines.

The current ambassador, Dame Karen Pierce, is expected to remain in her position until early 2025.