Gordon Brown's Deep Dive into the Epstein Scandal
Gordon Brown, the former prime minister, is reported to be utterly appalled by Britain's apparent role in enabling a web of exploitation linked to the Jeffrey Epstein case. His intense scrutiny of the files has drawn comparisons to a determined detective, driven by moral anger and a quest for transparency.
Moral Outrage and Political Fallout
In a comment piece published on 6 February, Brown expressed profound revulsion at the Epstein revelations, stating it was hard to find words for his disgust. He emphasized that the time is overdue to let in the light on these matters. Specifically, he was vexed by allegations that Peter Mandelson, his de facto deputy prime minister, leaked market-sensitive documents to Epstein during the financial crisis. Brown labeled such actions, if true, as a betrayal of everything the country stands for.
Before publishing, Brown sought reassurance from friends that his strong language was justified. Mandelson was subsequently arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, though he denies any wrongdoing. Brown's pursuit of documents began last September when initial emails suggested closeness between Mandelson and Epstein. He wrote to the then cabinet secretary, Chris Wormald, seeking correspondence but was informed no such papers were found.
Investigative Efforts and Allegations
In a follow-up article for the New Statesman, Brown detailed his deep delve into the Epstein files, shocking him to the core with discoveries about abuse and Britain's unacknowledged role. He reported that British girls were on 90 Epstein flights from UK airports, part of the so-called 'Lolita Express', and alleged Epstein used Stansted airport for cheap charges to fly in girls from Latvia, Lithuania, and Russia.
Brown called for police to speak to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor about any knowledge he might have. He sent a five-page memorandum of evidence to six police forces covering airports used by Epstein. On 19 February, the former prince was also arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, denying wrongdoing.
Personal Motivations and Insider Insights
Brown has been assisted in his investigation by Clare Rewcastle, a journalist married to his brother Andrew, known for exposing corruption. According to sources, many have turned to Brown with information, and he has been deeply involved in background work. His motivation is described as genuine moral outrage over Britain's role in exploitation.
However, long-time acquaintances suggest a more complex picture. A Labour insider hinted that Brown might feel unconscious guilt for bringing Mandelson back into government in 2009, initially planned as deputy prime minister but titled first secretary of state due to internal opposition. Sources say Brown was advised against this move as a significant risk, but he proceeded, citing the need for economic expertise during the financial crisis, including consulting with European Commission president José Manuel Barroso.
Brown's Character and Post-PM Activism
Insiders describe Brown as profoundly moral, with a stubborn, activist-like approach to issues like the Epstein scandal. His aversion to holidays is noted, preferring to work on causes such as police investigations into phone hacking, reversing the two-child benefits cap, and improving palliative care. One source likened him to Ted Heath on steroids, praising his role in driving the Epstein issue forward.
Currently, Brown is letting police investigations proceed while focusing on other initiatives, including a new book on global politics and promoting a VAT relief policy to aid charities like Multibank, which distributes donated goods to disadvantaged families. As one source put it, Gordon sees everything as a moral crusade, and when it's good, that fire is amazing.
