Lord Peter Mandelson is reportedly set to be formally summoned by the United States Congress to provide testimony concerning his connections to the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This development follows the emergence of new allegations from recently unsealed court documents, often referred to as the "Epstein files," which have reignited scrutiny into the network of the disgraced billionaire.
Financial Transactions Revealed in Epstein Files
The newly released documents are said to contain bank statements from the period 2003 to 2004. These records allegedly indicate that Lord Mandelson received a payment totalling $75,000 from Jeffrey Epstein. In response to these claims, Lord Mandelson has stated he has no recollection of this transaction, raising questions about the nature and purpose of the financial transfer during that timeframe.
Further Payment Allegation Involving Husband
An additional file within the released documentation suggests a further financial link. It is reported that in 2009, Epstein sent a sum of £10,000 to Lord Mandelson's husband. According to the allegations, this money was requested to fund an osteopathy course. This detail adds another layer to the ongoing investigation into the extent of the financial interactions between Mandelson and Epstein's circle.
Political Fallout and Resignation
The escalating pressure from these allegations has prompted significant political repercussions. Lord Mandelson resigned his membership of the Labour Party on Sunday, the 1st of February 2026. In a statement, he expressed that he did not wish to cause "further embarrassment" to the party while he personally investigates the serious claims made against him. This resignation marks a dramatic step for the former Cabinet minister and EU Trade Commissioner.
Previous Controversy and Apology
This is not the first time Lord Mandelson's association with Jeffrey Epstein has led to professional consequences. Last year, he was dismissed from his role as the United Kingdom's ambassador to the United States, a position he held, directly due to the emerging details about his ties to Epstein. Following his dismissal, Lord Mandelson issued a public apology to the victims of Jeffrey Epstein, expressing regret for what he described as his "misplaced loyalty" towards the financier.
The expected summons from US Congress signifies a deepening of the international scrutiny into the Epstein case, with British political figures now being drawn directly into the investigative spotlight. The testimony, if it proceeds, could provide crucial insights into the financial dealings and relationships within Epstein's network during the early 2000s.
