New documents revealed by the U.S. House Oversight Committee have intensified scrutiny on Lord Peter Mandelson, the United Kingdom's ambassador to the United States, due to his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Central to the controversy is a ten-page tribute penned by Mandelson for Epstein's 50th birthday, orchestrated by Epstein's associate Ghislaine Maxwell. In the tribute, Mandelson described Epstein as an "intelligent, sharp-witted man" and referred to him as his "best pal," accompanied by personal handwritten notes and photographs. These disclosures have prompted outrage from Epstein's victims, who are demanding Mandelson's immediate dismissal from his diplomatic post. One survivor stated it is "sickening" for someone in such a high-profile position to call a pedophile their "best pal," highlighting the profound distress these revelations cause.
Mandelson has previously expressed deep regret for his association with Epstein, stating in a 2025 interview that he regretted ever meeting him and acknowledging the harm inflicted upon young women. Despite these admissions, the controversy continues to escalate. Leaked emails from June 2008, prior to Epstein's guilty plea for sex offenses, show Mandelson offering support, assuring Epstein he was "following you closely and here whenever you need" and advising him to "remember the Art of War" when facing prosecutors. Reports also indicate Mandelson encouraged Epstein to "fight for early release" and expressed, "I think the world of you" before Epstein began his prison sentence. Claims also suggest Mandelson facilitated a business transaction with Epstein after his release from prison.
The UK government has not yet issued an official statement regarding the calls for Mandelson's removal. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, however, has publicly stated his confidence in Mandelson, asserting that "full due process was followed during this appointment." Nevertheless, pressure is mounting, with several Labour MPs joining victims in demanding Mandelson's dismissal. Mandelson has acknowledged the likelihood of further "embarrassing" correspondence surfacing, indicating that this controversy is far from over. The situation prompts a critical examination of vetting processes for diplomatic appointments and the broader implications of associations with figures like Epstein, underscoring the public's demand for accountability and integrity in leadership.