Keir Starmer is in hot water over his decision to appoint Lord Peter Mandelson as the UK Ambassador to the US. The controversy erupted after emails revealed Mandelson had sent supportive messages to Jeffrey Epstein, even as the disgraced financier faced jail for sex offences. Despite initially defending Mandelson, Starmer was compelled to dismiss him once the depth of the peer’s ties to Epstein came to light. This marks the second scandal for the government in a week, following Angela Rayner’s resignation.
The Foreign Office released a statement highlighting that the true extent of Mandelson’s relationship with Epstein was not known at the time of his appointment. Emails revealed that Mandelson maintained contact with Epstein, even suggesting that Epstein fight for early release and expressing admiration just before Epstein served his sentence in 2008.
Mandelson has expressed regret over his dismissal, stating that serving as ambassador was the “privilege of my life.” However, many, including Labour MPs and political figures, are vocally criticising the delay in his removal, arguing it undermines trust in the government. With a state visit from President Trump around the corner, who has faced his own scrutiny over ties to Epstein, the timing couldn’t be worse.
The government now faces calls from the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats for full disclosure on what No 10 knew about the links between Mandelson and Epstein, as well as demands for a review of vetting procedures. While Mandelson’s deputy, James Roscoe, steps in as interim ambassador, the political fallout is just beginning.