Britain’s suave ambassador to the U.S., Peter Mandelson, was removed from his position on Thursday due to his close ties with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, causing a distraction for Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Known as the Prince of Darkness for his secretive maneuvers during the previous Labour government, Mandelson was compelled to step down from his prestigious diplomatic role following the publication of his correspondences with Epstein.
The 71-year-old veteran Labour politician, instrumental in the party’s achievements under former leader Tony Blair, faced scrutiny over his association with Epstein after a birthday book surfaced featuring a letter allegedly from Mandelson referring to Epstein as “my best pal.” The book also included a purported submission from U.S. President Donald Trump, who denies sending a letter to Epstein.
Additional emails revealed in the British media showed Mandelson advising Epstein to contest his early release when facing charges related to soliciting a minor. Following the disclosure of these emails, the British Foreign Ministry stated, “The emails demonstrate that the depth and nature of Peter Mandelson’s connection with Jeffrey Epstein differs significantly from what was previously known.”
Starmer had nominated Mandelson for the ambassadorial role in December 2024. Mandelson, who first became an MP in 1992 and held various positions in the Labour governments of Blair and Brown, eventually secured peerage in the House of Lords.
In a statement, Mandelson expressed deep sympathy for the women affected by Epstein’s actions and illegal activities. He regretted his association with Epstein, acknowledging that he had been deceived by the “charismatic criminal liar.” Starmer, seemingly satisfied with Mandelson’s remarks, offered his support in Parliament.
The dismissal occurred just before Trump’s upcoming state visit to Britain. Epstein’s death in 2019, ruled a suicide, continues to raise questions due to his connections with prominent figures like Trump, Bill Gates, Bill Clinton, and Alan Dershowitz, sparking various conspiracy theories.
Trump’s administration has faced challenges related to Epstein, with former labor secretary Alex Acosta resigning over his handling of an Epstein plea deal. Recent efforts in Congress to release Epstein-related files have stirred controversy, highlighting the ongoing impact of the case on U.S. politics.