UK releases 1,500 pages on Mandelson-Epstein ties, hits Starmer
New tranche of documents could deepen PM's crisis over Epstein-linked appointment.
The UK government dropped a massive tranche of documents—over 1,500 pages—relating to Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador from February to September 2025. The release includes emails, text messages, and exchanges between ministers, aides, and Mandelson himself. It comes nine months after Bloomberg exposed Mandelson's ties to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, a scandal that has weakened Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Earlier documents in March showed official vetting had warned of 'reputational risks' over those Epstein connections. The fallout has already forced Starmer's chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, and communications director Tim Allan to resign. Now this new release—one of the largest parliamentary publications ever—threatens to reignite criticism from opposition parties and Labour MPs questioning Starmer's judgment in appointing a figure with multiple past resignations and the nickname 'Prince of Darkness'.
- UK government published over 1,500 pages of documents on Mandelson's ambassador appointment, including emails and texts.
- Earlier March release showed vetting warned of 'reputational risks' over Mandelson's Epstein ties.
- Scandal already forced Starmer's chief of staff and communications director to resign; new release threatens further damage.
Why It Matters
Massive document dump could escalate political crisis for Starmer over Epstein-linked appointment.