Epstein Files Expose Financial Transfers to Lord Mandelson's Spouse
Convicted paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein transferred thousands of pounds to cover the osteopathy course fees of Lord Peter Mandelson's husband, according to newly released documents from the infamous "Epstein files." The financial exchanges, which occurred in September 2009, reveal a continued connection between Epstein and the former UK ambassador to the US's spouse even after Epstein's criminal conviction.
Detailed Email Exchanges Reveal Course Funding Request
The communications were part of over three million documents published by the US Department of Justice on Friday, providing unprecedented insight into Epstein's network. The emails between Epstein and Reinaldo Avila da Silva, Lord Mandelson's husband, specifically discuss payments for Mr Avila da Silva's attendance at the British School of Osteopathy.
On 7 September 2009, Mr Avila da Silva emailed Epstein regarding his educational expenses. He wrote: "I sent you a couple of emails last week regarding my osteo course expenses, incl fee, anatomical models, lap top if you can help me with this. I hope you received them." He further clarified that his annual fee amounted to £3,225 and provided bank details for the transfer, thanking Epstein for any assistance.
Epstein responded promptly the same day, stating: "I will wire your loan amount immediated'y (sic)." Subsequent emails referenced a £10,000 transfer, with Mr Avila da Silva seeking clarification on whether this sum included his school fees or if the £3,225 would be sent directly to the institution. Epstein confirmed the amount was "includedd (sic)," and days later, Mr Avila da Silva expressed gratitude, noting: "Just a brief note to thank you for the money which arrived in my account this morning."
Lord Mandelson's Apology and Ongoing Associations
These revelations follow Lord Mandelson's public apology earlier this month to Epstein's victims for maintaining his friendship with the convicted financier. In 2008, Epstein admitted to soliciting prostitution and a minor, yet Lord Mandelson acknowledged he believed Epstein's explanations and continued to support him.
In a statement issued to BBC Newsnight on 12 January, Lord Mandelson admitted: "I was wrong to believe him following his conviction and to continue my association with him afterwards. I apologise unequivocally for doing so to the women and girls who suffered." Despite attempts to distance himself, emails have exposed the depth of their friendship post-conviction, including advice from Lord Mandelson for Epstein to "fight for early release" before his 18-month prison sentence.
Additional reports indicate Lord Mandelson told Epstein "I think the world of you" the day before Epstein began his jail term. Lord Mandelson has suggested that Epstein excluded him from the sexual aspects of his life due to his homosexuality. When approached for comment by the Press Association, Lord Mandelson reiterated his earlier statement, emphasising: "I was never culpable or complicit in his crimes. Like everyone else I learned the actual truth about him after his death."
The release of these documents underscores the ongoing financial and personal ties within Epstein's circle, raising further questions about the extent of his influence and support network following his legal troubles.
