Scotland Yard has opened a full-blown criminal investigation into Lord Peter Mandelson, the former Labour heavyweight, following shocking revelations about his links to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.
The move comes after a series of emails and documents surfaced suggesting Mandelson shared confidential government information with Epstein while serving in Cabinet roles.
Emails Suggest Market-Sensitive Tips
According to newly uncovered correspondence, Mandelson allegedly passed on sensitive information about government plans, including multi-billion-pound contracts and Eurozone bailout details.
One email appeared to show the ex-Business Secretary discussing a £10.5 billion Ministry of Defence deal with Epstein, while another suggested he forwarded live notes from meetings between the Chancellor and US Treasury Secretary Larry Summers — all within minutes.
Close Ties Persisted Despite Epstein’s Convictions
Mandelson reportedly maintained his friendship with Epstein even after the financier was jailed for child sex offences.
Some emails contained jokes about celebrations involving strippers when Epstein was released, prompting public outrage.
Mandelson has insisted his sexual orientation meant he was “kept separate” from Epstein’s criminal activities, but questions about his judgment continue to mount.
Alleged Payments Raise Eyebrows
The so-called Epstein Files also include bank records that suggest Mandelson and his husband, Reinaldo Avila da Silva, received tens of thousands of pounds from Epstein.
Mandelson denies receiving the payments, while da Silva allegedly received a standing order of $4,000 per month for three months.
These revelations have intensified scrutiny over the peer’s financial and political dealings.
Resignation From the House of Lords
Under mounting public and political pressure, Mandelson resigned from the House of Lords on Tuesday.
Despite stepping down, he now faces an investigation into possible misconduct in public office, an offence that carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
Authorities are likely to interview Mandelson, his former ministers, and even ex-Prime Minister Gordon Brown as part of the probe.
Political Fallout and Calls for Accountability
The scandal has triggered intense criticism from across the political spectrum.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer described the situation as “appalling,” while Tory politicians, including Kemi Badenoch, questioned why Mandelson was appointed ambassador to the US despite his close ties to Epstein.
Calls are also mounting for Mandelson to lose his ministerial pension and EU pension, and for Parliament to release all documents related to his appointments.
Government and Cabinet Respond
Downing Street confirmed that the Cabinet Office has sent dossiers to the Metropolitan Police highlighting the sensitive nature of the emails allegedly shared with Epstein.
The Prime Minister ordered officials to cooperate fully with the inquiry and publicly condemned Mandelson for “letting his country down.”
Emergency legislation to potentially remove his peerage is reportedly being drafted.
Further Shocking Details Emerge
The Daily Mail and other outlets revealed additional emails showing Mandelson voicing frustration about government negotiations and even about Gordon Brown himself.
Allegations include forwarding private notes on high-level financial regulation and confidential contracts — information that could have been valuable to Epstein and other financial players.
Epstein Files Reveal Complex Financial Links
Mandelson’s husband, da Silva, reportedly received multiple payments from Epstein for educational and living expenses, while Mandelson allegedly received other transfers totaling tens of thousands of pounds.
Mandelson disputes these claims, but the details have fueled public anger and intensified calls for accountability.
A Growing National and International Scandal
As Scotland Yard investigates, the European Commission is reviewing Mandelson’s .nks with Epstein, potentially affecting his EU pension.
The scandal has rocked the Labour Party, raised questions about governmental oversight, and intensified debates about the influence of Epstein-connected figures in British politics.
The fallout shows no signs of slowing, with the public demanding answers and justice.