The storm surrounding Lord Peter Mandelson shows no signs of letting up as police are now being urged to investigate claims he leaked sensitive Downing Street emails to Jeffrey Epstein.
The accusations have come amid a broader release of documents by the US government, and they appear to connect the former Cabinet minister directly to discussions on the UK’s financial crisis and lobbying efforts during the Credit Crunch.
Last night, Mandelson formally resigned from the Labour Party, prompting criticism of Sir Keir Starmer for not acting sooner.
Calls are now growing for a full inquiry into his conduct while in government and for his peerage to be reconsidered.
Sensitive Emails Spark Allegations
The controversy stems from a tranche of emails allegedly forwarded to Epstein in 2009.
At the time, Mandelson was serving as Business Secretary, and the emails reportedly detailed the UK’s financial resilience, potential government asset sales, and even strategies for lobbying against the bankers’ bonus tax introduced by Chancellor Alistair Darling.
Some of the documents also suggest Mandelson provided Epstein with advance notice of a €500 billion bailout for the Euro in 2010.
Meanwhile, bank records dating back to 2003 and 2004 appear to show Epstein wiring thousands of pounds to Mandelson, though he has questioned their authenticity.
Calls for Investigation and Peerage Review
The Liberal Democrats have demanded police action to investigate whether Mandelson’s conduct amounts to misconduct in public office.
Some MPs are pushing for his peerage to be revoked, although current law would require a new Act of Parliament to remove someone from the House of Lords — a move with no modern precedent.
Downing Street confirmed that Sir Keir has asked the Cabinet Secretary to urgently review the emails exchanged between Mandelson and Epstein, emphasizing that Mandelson should not remain a member of the Lords.
Inside the Epstein Correspondence
The documents reveal exchanges ranging from the serious to the bizarre.
In one email to Ghislaine Maxwell in 2002, Mandelson allegedly described himself as “wild and dangerous and twice fallen.”
Other messages show him seeking Epstein’s advice about personal matters, including a dispute with his partner over household expenses, and even discussing a hypothetical marriage to Princess Beatrice.
Some correspondence reportedly shows Mandelson informing Epstein of key political developments before they were publicly announced, including Gordon Brown’s resignation plans and details of UK financial policy.
Mandelson’s Resignation and Apology
In a letter to Labour’s general secretary, Mandelson said he regretted being linked to Epstein once again and repeated his apology to the women and girls affected by the financier’s crimes.
He also denied recollection of any financial payments from Epstein, though he acknowledged the need to investigate the matter further.
“I deeply regret ever having known Epstein.
I was wrong to believe him and to continue my association with him afterwards,” he wrote, adding that he hoped his resignation would prevent further embarrassment for the Labour Party.
Political Reactions Across the Spectrum
The revelations have sparked criticism across party lines.
Former PM Gordon Brown has demanded a Cabinet Office inquiry into the “wholly unacceptable” disclosure of government documents during the financial crisis.
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey echoed calls for a police investigation, saying the emails indicate potential misconduct.
Bank statements suggesting payments from Epstein, as well as references to UK policy lobbying, have added urgency to these demands.
Even Conservative MPs are calling for a “full and thorough independent investigation” into Mandelson’s previous appointments, particularly his brief role as UK ambassador to the US. Kemi Badenoch emphasized that all avenues should be explored to hold him accountable.
Questions About the Legitimacy of the Documents
Despite the claims, Mandelson and his representatives have stressed that some of the documents may be false or misleading.
Formatting inconsistencies, implausible banking details, and US legal disclaimers raise questions about their authenticity.
Experts point out that some papers may include “untrue or sensationalist claims,” and verification by financial institutions such as JP Morgan would be required to confirm their validity.
The Wider Fallout
As the story continues to unfold, attention is turning to the role of senior political figures in the release and handling of these emails.
MPs from multiple parties are questioning why Starmer allowed Mandelson to remain in positions of influence despite prior warnings, and whether the system for disciplining peers needs urgent reform.
Meanwhile, the US House Oversight Committee is reportedly considering summoning Mandelson to testify about his links to Epstein, further extending the saga beyond the UK.
What Comes Next
With public anger mounting and inquiries underway on both sides of the Atlantic, the Mandelson-Epstein story is entering a new chapter.
Questions over leaked documents, unexplained financial transfers, and his continuing status as a peer all hang in the balance, leaving a complex web of politics, power, and scandal for authorities and the public to untangle.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn