Prime Minister Launches Extraordinary Attack Over Epstein Links
In a dramatic parliamentary confrontation, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has levelled explosive accusations against Lord Peter Mandelson, declaring he "betrayed our country" through his connections with convicted paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. The Prime Minister's blistering remarks came during a tense Prime Minister's Questions session, where he detailed multiple alleged deceptions by the former Labour heavyweight.
"Lied Repeatedly" About Epstein Relationship
Sir Keir revealed that Lord Mandelson had "lied repeatedly" about the nature of his relationship with Epstein during the vetting process for his appointment as US ambassador. The Prime Minister expressed profound regret over the appointment, stating unequivocally: "If I knew then what I know now, he would never have been anywhere near government."
The Prime Minister expanded his condemnation, asserting that Mandelson had betrayed not just the nation, but "our Parliament and my party" through his actions. This represents one of the most severe public rebukes delivered by a sitting Prime Minister against a former senior colleague in recent political history.
Consequences and Constitutional Actions
In response to the revelations, Sir Keir has taken decisive constitutional steps. He confirmed having personally spoken with the King to initiate Lord Mandelson's removal from the Privy Council, stripping him of the right to use the title "right honourable." The Prime Minister justified this unprecedented move by stating Mandelson had "brought the reputation of the Privy Council into disrepute."
Although Lord Mandelson has already resigned from the House of Lords, the government is drafting legislation to prevent him from continuing to use his title. This represents a comprehensive effort to distance the establishment from the former minister amid the growing scandal.
Document Release and Parliamentary Pressure
The controversy intensified as Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch utilised parliamentary procedures to demand the release of all documents relating to Lord Mandelson's appointment as Washington ambassador. On Wednesday afternoon, she is scheduled to call for complete transparency, including communications between Mandelson and key figures in Sir Keir's inner circle such as chief of staff Morgan McSweeney and senior ministers.
The Prime Minister has agreed to release the papers, with the crucial caveat that nothing compromising national security or international relations will be disclosed. Additionally, the Metropolitan Police must approve the release to ensure it doesn't prejudice their ongoing investigation into Lord Mandelson's alleged misconduct in public office.
This developing scandal continues to reverberate through Westminster, raising serious questions about vetting procedures for high-profile appointments and the ongoing consequences of associations with disgraced figures like Jeffrey Epstein. The Prime Minister's forceful intervention marks a significant escalation in a controversy that shows no signs of abating.
