Peter Mandelson

Mandelson called Epstein “my best pal” in the 2003 birthday book. Emails published in September 2025 show that after Epstein’s 2008 charges he told him “your friends love you” and encouraged him to challenge the conviction. Keir Starmer fired him as ambassador days later, citing new information about the depth of the relationship. Documents released in 2026 appear to show $75,000 sent to Mandelson-linked accounts in 2003–04. [1][2][3]

Emails in the January 2026 U.S. release appear to show that in 2009–10, as business secretary, Mandelson forwarded Epstein an internal adviser’s memo on selling government assets and gave advance notice of the €500 billion European bailout. The Metropolitan Police opened an investigation and arrested him on 23 February 2026 on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was released, his passport returned and his bail conditions lifted; the investigation continues. Starmer’s chief of staff resigned over the appointment. [1][2][3]

British police say they still lack unredacted U.S. records, and European investigators complain the Justice Department has not answered requests. Mandelson says he did nothing criminal and was not motivated by money. [3][4][5]