British police have launched a search of two properties associated with Peter Mandelson as part of an inquiry into alleged misconduct in public office. This investigation follows recent revelations about Mandelson’s connections to Jeffrey Epstein, a disgraced financier, after the U.S. Justice Department released new documents regarding Epstein’s activities.
Mandelson, who previously served as the UK ambassador to the U.S., is alleged to have shared sensitive government information that benefited Epstein during the 2008 financial crisis. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that they executed search warrants at locations in Wiltshire and Camden, with a spokesperson stating that the investigation focuses on a 72-year-old man, although Mandelson has not yet been arrested.
This scandal has significantly impacted the Labour Party, plunging Keir Starmer’s government into turmoil. Critics are questioning Starmer’s judgment in appointing Mandelson last year, given his prior friendship with Epstein, which continued even after Epstein’s conviction in 2008 for soliciting prostitution from a minor.
Mandelson has been relatively silent amid the backlash. In previous statements, he expressed regret for maintaining ties with Epstein post-conviction, acknowledging the harm caused to victims. Since the scandal broke, he has resigned from the Labour Party and stepped down from the House of Lords.
Starmer dismissed Mandelson from his ambassador role in September after details emerged about their history, including a handwritten birthday note to Epstein where Mandelson referred to him as “my best pal.” Following this, leaked emails revealed Mandelson’s feelings of desperation following Epstein’s conviction.
The latest documents from the DOJ disclose that while Mandelson was serving as business secretary, he may have leaked crucial UK government information to Epstein during a critical phase when the government was deliberating policies to recover from the financial crisis. Notably, emails from June 2009 indicate that Mandelson forwarded a memo about Prime Minister Gordon Brown’s proposed £20 billion asset sales and tax policies to Epstein.
Additionally, the released bank statements suggest that Epstein transferred $75,000 into Mandelson-related accounts between 2003 and 2004, raising further questions about their financial interactions. Reports also indicate that Epstein might have funded a portion of a course for Reinaldo Avila da Silva, Mandelson’s husband.
In a parliamentary address, Starmer described Mandelson’s actions as “beyond infuriating,” emphasizing that the former ambassador had repeatedly misled the public about his relationship with Epstein. Pressured to clarify the vetting process that allowed Mandelson’s appointment, the government has pledged to disclose relevant documentation regarding the matter.
Starmer stated that the review of materials related to Mandelson’s role will be conducted with diligence and transparency, hoping to restore confidence among the public and parliament. This ongoing saga underscores the importance of accountability within political appointments and the need for thorough vetting processes in leadership roles.