UK government publishes files about appointment of Epstein friend Mandelson to ambassador post

The UK government’s release of the first tranche of documents on Peter Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador to the United States has deepened controversy weeks after the former diplomat was sacked and arrested amid the Epstein scandal . Published under pressure from lawmakers, the nearly 150‑page file reveals that Prime Minister Keir Starmer was warned of serious risks before making the appointment, yet proceeded regardless.

The internal due diligence report prepared in December 2024 explicitly highlighted a “general reputational risk” tied to Mandelson’s longstanding personal association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein , warning that continuing the relationship after Epstein’s 2008 conviction could damage Britain’s standing. Officials, including Starmer’s national security adviser, described the appointment process as “weirdly rushed.”

The documents show Mandelson was granted access to classified briefings before full security vetting was completed, a significant departure from normal Foreign Office protocol and a focus of criticism.

Mandelson, 72, who served as ambassador from December 2024 until his dismissal in September 2025, later resigned from the Labour Party and the House of Lords as scrutiny intensified. He was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office , including allegations he shared sensitive information with Epstein during an earlier government role. He was released without bail conditions and continues to deny wrongdoing.

The files also disclose that, after asking for more than £500,000 in severance , Mandelson ultimately received a £75,000 taxpayer‑funded payout when his ambassadorial contract was terminated, a sum senior officials described as a negotiated reduction to avoid costly legal action.

Starmer has publicly apologised to Epstein’s victims and insists the documents show Mandelson misrepresented his ties. Critics from opposition parties and some within Starmer’s own ranks have intensified calls for accountability, including demands that Mandelson return his severance payment, accusing the prime minister of misleading Parliament over the vetting process.

Further documents are expected to be published as political pressure mounts and the broader implications for UK governance and diplomatic appointments continue to unfold.