Keir Starmer is preparing to release the initial batch of documents concerning Lord Peter Mandelson’s appointment as the UK ambassador to the United States. This move follows the government’s agreement to MPs’ requests last month to disclose numerous records related to Lord Mandelson’s 2024 appointment, amid inquiries into his vetting process and connections to Jeffrey Epstein.
The first set of documents, expected to be made public shortly after Prime Minister’s Questions, will provide insights into the vetting procedures. The documents will include due diligence reports on his appointment by the Cabinet Office, which were shared with Mr. Starmer in advance. It is anticipated that certain files may be withheld for reasons of national security or foreign relations.
The final decision on redacting documents lies with the Parliament’s Intelligence and Security Committee. It is likely that communications such as WhatsApp messages between senior officials and Lord Mandelson after his appointment may not be included in the released papers.
Lord Mandelson, a long-standing figure in the Labour Party, was dismissed by Mr. Starmer as ambassador in September last year. However, his appointment came under renewed scrutiny following the release of additional Epstein files by the US Department of Justice last month.
Subsequently, at the age of 72, Lord Mandelson was arrested by the Metropolitan Police in February on suspicions of misconduct in public office, following allegations of leaking sensitive information to Epstein, the convicted financier.
Recently, he was relieved of his bail conditions as investigations by the police continue. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the return of his passport. In a statement from his legal representatives, it was clarified that Lord Mandelson will cooperate with the ongoing police investigation and will refrain from further comments at this stage.
The arrest stemmed from allegations that Lord Mandelson divulged confidential insider information to Epstein, including details of an EU bailout post the 2008 financial crisis. Police conducted searches at his London residence valued at £7.6 million and the Wiltshire farmhouse he rents. Lord Mandelson resigned from the House of Lords after the US Department of Justice released new documents in January, and subsequently lost his ambassadorial role under Keir Starmer in the US last year.
The arrest was prompted by revelations of a close relationship with Epstein unveiled in new emails. A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed that the investigation into the 72-year-old man’s alleged misconduct in public office remains ongoing.