Peter Mandelson, often dubbed New Labour’s “Prince of Darkness,” has broken his silence about his controversial connection to the disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.
In his first interview since millions of Epstein-related files were released, Mandelson admitted that he is still trying to process the bizarre and troubling moments from their association.
“I have no idea why I was in my pants in that photograph,” Mandelson told reporters, referring to a now-infamous picture taken in Epstein’s Paris apartment.
He described Epstein as a “master manipulator” and likened the lingering impact of the relationship to “dog muck—once it’s on your shoe, the smell never goes away.”
Confusing Moments in the Paris ‘House of Sin’
The photograph in question shows Mandelson in his underpants inside Epstein’s £8 million Paris property, which he called the “House of Sin.”
He said he could not recall who the woman in the photo was or why he was photographed in that state.
“It looks as though she came in and showed me something on an iPad,” he said.
This revelation comes alongside another embarrassing image of Mandelson, this time showing him grinning while receiving a foot massage.
The peer claims these moments occurred during a period he described as a blur, especially given that much of his friendship with Epstein continued after the financier’s conviction for soliciting sex from minors.
The Question of Money and Favors
Mandelson also addressed allegations of financial exchanges with Epstein, insisting he has “absolutely no recollection” of receiving $75,000 reportedly deposited into accounts linked to him.
“I think I would remember such a large sum,” he said, reflecting on the claim.
He defended small acts of support from Epstein, such as a bursary for his husband Reinaldo’s osteopathy course.
Mandelson insisted he viewed this as kindness rather than anything nefarious: “It was a great help to Reinaldo and I thanked him.”
A ‘Classic Sociopath’
Looking back, Mandelson said he now recognizes Epstein’s manipulative personality.
“He was a classic sociopath. Outwardly charming, very clever, but a master manipulator,” he said.
Mandelson expressed regret over continuing the friendship after Epstein’s 2008 indictment, adding: “That’s why I wanted to apologize unequivocally to the women and girls who suffered.”
He admitted he was “too trusting,” viewing Epstein as someone offering mentorship and guidance in moving from politics to finance.
“Perhaps I was naive in regarding him as a good-faith actor,” Mandelson said.
Emails and Allegations of Leaks
The release of Epstein-related files has intensified scrutiny of Mandelson’s conduct.
Some emails suggest he may have shared sensitive government information with Epstein, including advice to then-Prime Minister Gordon Brown and advance notice of a €500 billion Eurozone bailout.
Critics have described this as a potential “betrayal.”
Mandelson defended himself, saying, “Hiding under a rock would be a disproportionate response to a handful of misguided historical emails, which I deeply regret sending.
If it hadn’t been for the emails, I’d still be in Washington. They didn’t change the relationship I had with this monster.”
Investigations and Political Fallout
In the UK, Scotland Yard is reviewing allegations that Mandelson may have misused his position in government.
Referrals have come from both Reform UK and the SNP, and calls have intensified for a criminal investigation.
Meanwhile, Gordon Brown confirmed he asked the Cabinet Secretary to look into the alleged disclosure of sensitive information during the financial crisis.
The emails in question reportedly included discussions of asset sales, Labour’s tax policies, and even requests from Epstein for tours of Downing Street and the House of Lords for his goddaughter.
Some reports also mention potential payments from Epstein to Mandelson’s husband.
Standing Firm Despite Controversy
Despite the mounting scrutiny, Mandelson says he has no plans to retire.
“There is nothing I can tell Congress about Epstein they don’t already know. I had no exposure to the criminal aspects of his life,” he said.
He insisted that none of the released files indicate wrongdoing or misdemeanour on his part.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Mandelson admitted: “I’ve had a lot of bad luck, some of it my own making. But I regret nothing more than being too trusting of Epstein.”
