Labour Peer 'Amazed' by Epstein Files as Police Launch Review
Labour peer Peter Mandelson has declared himself "amazed" by some of the unearthed files detailing his relationship with convicted paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein, as fresh revelations concerning Sarah Ferguson and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor surface. The Metropolitan Police has confirmed it will review reports into alleged misconduct in a public office following accusations that Lord Mandelson leaked sensitive government information to Epstein while serving as a cabinet minister.
Starmer Joins Calls for Mandelson to Quit Lords
Sir Keir Starmer is among prominent figures demanding his former ambassador to Washington resign from the House of Lords. This pressure mounts as newly released documents from the US Department of Justice suggest Epstein had access to confidential government discussions. Lord Mandelson, in an interview with The Times, admitted to a "lapse in judgment" but insisted Epstein's financial contributions did not influence his official actions.
New Ferguson and Andrew Revelations Emerge
Simultaneously, an email from a sender named Sarah, believed to be the former Duchess of York, has emerged within the files. It reads: "No woman has ever left the royal family with her head, and the [sic] cannot behead me, therefore they will discredit me." This adds another layer to the ongoing scandal surrounding Epstein's connections within British elite circles.
Financial Transactions and Denials
The files reference a £10,000 transfer from Epstein to fund an osteopathy course for Lord Mandelson's husband in 2009, during the height of the global financial crisis. Bank statements from 2003-2004 also indicate payments totalling approximately £55,000. Lord Mandelson claims to have "absolutely no recollection" of these transactions and dismisses suggestions they constituted bribery, particularly regarding discussions on banker bonus regulations.
Liberal Democrats Demand National Inquiry
The Liberal Democrats have called for a statutory public inquiry into Epstein's influence at the "heart of the British political establishment." Leader Ed Davey emphasised the need for transparency, stating: "Only complete transparency can restore public trust, deliver justice for victims and prevent this level of corruption from ever happening again." He also expressed support for stripping Lord Mandelson of his peerage.
Further Scrutiny on Mandelson's Conduct
Additional emails reveal Lord Mandelson asked Epstein's team for assistance with a car service during a 2012 visit to Boston, a request Epstein refused. Another email from election day 2010 shows the peer writing: "We are praying for a hung parliament. Alternatively, a well-hung young man." Health Minister Karin Smyth has suggested Lord Mandelson fails to recognise the seriousness of the allegations against him, criticising his decision to conduct a media interview.
Labour's Investigation Under Wraps
Notably, the Labour Party has declined to disclose specifics about any disciplinary investigation into Lord Mandelson, including when it commenced or its precise focus. This lack of detail has fuelled speculation in Westminster that the action may have been hastily arranged to demonstrate a response to the escalating scandal.
