Starmer Briefed on Mandelson Epstein Links Before UK Ambassador Appointment

Prime Minister Keir Starmer was officially briefed on the reputational risks associated with Peter Mandelson's appointment as UK ambassador to the United States, including Mandelson's prior relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, according to senior civil servants and Cabinet Office reports. The briefing included direct extracts from media reports and references to Mandelson's previous resignations as a Labour minister. Despite these warnings, Starmer personally decided to proceed with Mandelson's appointment, which was confirmed before the completion of national security vetting. Mandelson's association with Epstein was well known, including his stay at Epstein's Manhattan flat after Epstein's conviction and facilitating a meeting between Epstein and Tony Blair. Emails later surfaced showing Mandelson expressing support for Epstein during his sentencing period, which ultimately led to Mandelson's sacking. The situation has prompted calls for Starmer's resignation due to the perceived recklessness and disregard for integrity in the appointment process.