UK PM Faces Scrutiny Over Mandelson Epstein Links Amid Ambassador Sacking

Peter Mandelson, the UK's ambassador to the US, was sacked after leaked emails revealed his close and ongoing relationship with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, including messages urging Epstein to fight for early release from prison. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer had questioned Mandelson about his links to Epstein during the vetting process but defended him until fresh details emerged showing the extent of their association was greater than known at the time of appointment. The revelations have prompted calls for full disclosure of what the Prime Minister and Downing Street knew about Mandelson's ties to Epstein, amid growing political fallout and criticism from Labour MPs and opposition parties. Additionally, it was disclosed that Mandelson once urged former Prime Minister Tony Blair to meet Epstein and sought Epstein's help vetting an Israeli adviser, despite claiming no professional relationship. The scandal continues to strain Starmer's administration, which is already facing political volatility and internal party frustrations. Mandelson's deputy has taken over as interim ambassador following the scandal.