New Epstein Emails Seal Mandelson's Fate: Intimate Ties and Leaks Revealed
In a dramatic turn of events, newly released emails have cast a stark light on the deep and personal relationship between former Labour minister Peter Mandelson and the convicted financier Jeffrey Epstein. The revelations, which include leaked sensitive government documents and intimate personal exchanges, appear to have sealed Mandelson's political fate, leading to his resignation from the Labour party and mounting calls for a police investigation.
Damning Evidence from US Justice Department
The US justice department has released millions of fresh emails that paint a vivid picture of Epstein's central role in Mandelson's world. Contrary to Mandelson's recent claims of being "at the edge of this man's life," the correspondence suggests a bond that was both professional and intensely personal, with blurred boundaries that spanned years.
One particularly damaging email from June 2009 shows Mandelson leaking a Whitehall document to Epstein, who was under house arrest at the time. The document detailed the UK government's tax plans and intention to sell £20bn in assets, forwarded with the comment: "Interesting note that's gone to the PM." This act of sharing confidential information has raised serious questions about Mandelson's conduct while serving as a government minister.
Intimate Personal Exchanges and Financial Ties
The emails reveal an intimate friendship, with Mandelson turning to Epstein for advice on personal and professional matters. In March 2010, when Mandelson feared his partner had accessed his text messages, he urgently emailed Epstein: "What shall I do? You may need to help." Epstein's response was cautious: "This email is probably compromised as well, lets talk."
Financial connections are also laid bare, with emails suggesting Mandelson received three payments of $25,000 each from Epstein in 2003 and 2004, while he was a backbench MP. Additionally, his partner received thousands of pounds in 2009 and 2010 during Mandelson's tenure as business secretary. Mandelson has stated he has no recollection of these payments, but the evidence has prompted Labour leader Keir Starmer to call for an inquiry and for Mandelson to lose his House of Lords title.
A Friendship Forged in High Society
The origins of this relationship trace back to the early 2000s, introduced through Ghislaine Maxwell, daughter of media mogul Robert Maxwell. Mandelson, a central figure in New Labour despite previous cabinet resignations, grew close to Epstein, describing him as his "best pal" in a 50th birthday book compiled by Maxwell. Their bond persisted through Epstein's conviction in 2008 and Mandelson's roles as EU trade commissioner and later UK business secretary.
Emails from this period show Mandelson seeking Epstein's counsel on everything from buying a house with a £4m loan to career moves after Labour's 2010 election defeat. In one exchange, Mandelson asked about joining Facebook's board, while Epstein boasted of spending time with Bill Gates. The tone was often affectionate, with Mandelson writing in December 2010: "Where r u? I miss you."
Political Fallout and Future Implications
The drip-feed of revelations has cost Mandelson dearly, including his position as US ambassador, a role he cherished. Just eight months ago, he was standing with Donald Trump in the Oval Office, praised for his accent during a trade deal signing. Now, he faces the prospect of a scandal he may be unable to outrun, as the emails suggest a relationship that was mutually advantageous but ultimately catastrophic for his reputation.
As the Labour party launches an investigation and police are urged to probe the leaks, these emails serve as a potent epitaph for a politician whose ties to Epstein have finally come to light in full, revealing a story of power, intimacy, and betrayal that continues to unfold.
