UK Prime Minister Faces Scrutiny Over Epstein-Linked Ambassador Appointment
LONDON – British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is weathering a political storm following the release of government documents revealing he was warned about the potential “reputational risk” of appointing Peter Mandelson as U.S. ambassador due to the latter’s close relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The documents, published Wednesday, detail concerns raised in December 2024, as Starmer considered Mandelson for the key diplomatic post, hoping to foster a strong relationship with the administration of then-President Donald Trump. A memo from the head of the civil service outlined Mandelson’s two-decade connection with Epstein, including reports that Mandelson stayed at Epstein’s home while the financier was on bail in 2009 for sexual offenses involving a minor.
Despite these warnings, Starmer appointed Mandelson, only to dismiss him nine months later when further details of the relationship surfaced. The fallout has prompted calls for Starmer’s resignation, though he has so far survived the immediate crisis.
“Peter Mandelson should never have been afforded the privilege of representing this country,” Darren Jones, chief secretary to the prime minister, told lawmakers in the House of Commons. “I reiterate for the House that the prime minister deeply regrets taking him at his word. It was a mistake to do so.”
The released files, totaling over 140 pages, are part of a larger disclosure forced by lawmakers seeking transparency around the appointment. Authorities are releasing the documents in batches, with some withheld to avoid compromising an ongoing police investigation into Mandelson. He was arrested in February on suspicion of misconduct in public office and has since been released without bail. He denies any wrongdoing and has not been charged.
The documents also reveal that Epstein was questioned about his relationship with Mandelson, and the prime minister’s communications director was “satisfied with his responses,” though those responses have not been made public due to the police investigation.
Further scrutiny stems from reports within the Epstein files suggesting Mandelson may have shared market-sensitive information with Epstein while serving as the U.K.’s business secretary following the 2008 financial crisis. This included an internal government report outlining potential strategies for raising funds, including the sale of government assets, and alleged offers to lobby for reduced taxes on bankers’ bonuses.
Starmer has apologized to Epstein’s victims and acknowledged his regret for believing Mandelson’s “lies.” Mandelson is also facing a separate investigation by the European Union’s anti-fraud office related to his time as the bloc’s trade representative.
The situation underscores the enduring impact of the Epstein scandal and the heightened scrutiny facing public figures with ties to the convicted sex offender. The ongoing investigations and political repercussions are likely to continue to reverberate within the U.K. government.
