Lord Peter Mandelson has issued a robust denial of any significant association with the late disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, following renewed scrutiny of their past encounters. The former Labour business secretary acknowledged a handful of meetings but vehemently distanced himself from any deeper relationship with the convicted sex offender.
The controversy emerged after The Independent revealed that Mandelson had been a guest at Epstein's lavish New York townhouse in the early 2000s. This disclosure has triggered a fresh wave of examination into the ties between British political figures and the infamous financier.
Labour Leadership Responds
In response to the revelations, Sir Keir Starmer's office has initiated a comprehensive review of all historical connections between Labour representatives and Jeffrey Epstein. A spokesperson for the Labour leader confirmed the assessment would be thorough, though specific details about its scope remain undisclosed.
Mandelson's office stated: "Lord Mandelson met Mr Epstein only a small number of times, in the early 2000s, and has had no contact with him in well over a decade. He was never a visitor to Epstein's home in the Virgin Islands or Florida, and never flew on any of his planes."
Context of the Meetings
The encounters between Mandelson and Epstein occurred during a period when the financier was cultivating relationships with influential figures across politics, academia, and business. Epstein, who was convicted of sex offences in 2008, socialised with numerous high-profile individuals before his 2019 death while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges.
This development comes as political parties increasingly face pressure to address historical associations with controversial figures. The Labour review signifies a proactive attempt to confront these challenging aspects of the party's past connections.
