Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has ordered the publication of files relating to Peter Mandelson's appointment as UK ambassador to the US, in a bid to defuse a growing scandal over the former minister's links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The move comes as the Conservatives threatened to force a Commons vote on the matter, with Labour MPs growing increasingly uneasy.
The government will release emails, documents, and messages, except those deemed prejudicial to national security or damaging to diplomatic relations. A government amendment to a Conservative motion compelling disclosure is expected to pass, though officials caution the material may not be ready for release on Wednesday and may require police review.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting described the prime minister's approach as “maximum transparency” and “drawing a line in the sand.” Speaking on Wednesday, Streeting expressed a “deep sense of betrayal” over Mandelson's conduct, saying he had not told “the whole truth” about his relationship with Epstein. Streeting added that the prime minister's “worst fears” had been confirmed by the latest US Department of Justice disclosures.
The Metropolitan Police have launched a criminal investigation into allegations that Mandelson leaked Downing Street emails and market-sensitive information to Epstein. Documents from US court files suggest the then business secretary shared confidential details of internal discussions with the disgraced financier after the 2008 financial crash.
Conservative Party Chair Kevin Hollinrake criticised any use of national security exemptions in the release, stating the public would learn about Starmer's judgment. Streeting defended the prime minister's decision to appoint Mandelson, arguing that assurances were sought during vetting but the “whole truth” was not provided.
