UK PM Starmer Faces Fallout Over Mandelson Epstein Scandal

Sir Keir Starmer has come under intense criticism for appointing Lord Peter Mandelson as UK ambassador to the US despite security concerns and Mandelson's controversial ties to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Newly revealed messages show Mandelson describing Epstein as his "best pal" and urging him to fight for early release after his conviction, leading to Mandelson's swift sacking amid growing pressure from opposition figures and public outrage. Critics accuse Starmer of poor political judgment and a flawed vetting process, with some suggesting the scandal damages Labour's reputation and electoral prospects. Starmer initially expressed full confidence in Mandelson but acted quickly to remove him once the extent of the Epstein correspondence became clear. While Downing Street insists the latest emails were unknown at the time of appointment, questions remain over what Starmer and his team knew and when. The episode highlights broader concerns about government standards and the balancing act of political loyalty versus national security.