UK PM Starmer Defends Ambassador Mandelson Over Epstein Ties

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Health Secretary Wes Streeting have defended Peter Mandelson, the UK ambassador to the US, following revelations that he referred to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein as his "best pal" in a 2003 birthday tribute compiled by Epstein's co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell. Mandelson, who was appointed ambassador by Starmer after Labour's 2024 election victory, has expressed deep regret over having been introduced to Epstein and denied awareness of Epstein's crimes. Despite the release of photographs and letters showing Mandelson in relaxed settings with Epstein, the UK government maintains that association alone should not lead to Mandelson's removal from his post. Starmer emphasized Mandelson's key role in strengthening UK-US relations, particularly with the Trump administration, and reaffirmed his confidence in the ambassador. Streeting stressed the importance of focusing on justice for Epstein's victims and noted that Mandelson has clearly distanced himself from Epstein. The British embassy in Washington has been asked to comment further on the matter.