Labour heavyweight Peter Mandelson is facing mounting pressure to provide a full account of his dealings with the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The controversy has now reached the hallowed halls of the House of Lords, where a senior peer has formally demanded answers.
The call for transparency comes directly from Lord (Michael) Lexden, the Conservative Party’s official historian in the upper chamber. He has tabled a series of pointed written questions, compelling Lord Mandelson to detail the exact nature of his relationship with Epstein and to state whether he ever visited the disgraced billionaire’s private island or residences.
Starmer Resists Calls for Suspension
Meanwhile, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is facing internal pressure to take decisive action. Despite the serious nature of the allegations and the ongoing scrutiny, a spokesperson for the leader confirmed that Sir Keir has no current plans to suspend the whip from Lord Mandelson.
This stance places Starmer in a delicate position, balancing the demand for accountability with the political weight of a former minister and architect of New Labour. The leader’s office has stated that Mandelson should be given "the opportunity to set out the facts" regarding the questions posed in the Lords.
A History of Controversial Associations
The scandal reignited after Lord Mandelson was identified in recently unsealed US court documents related to the Epstein case. While the documents did not level accusations of wrongdoing at the former Business Secretary, they have shone an uncomfortable light on his past associations.
This is not the first time Mandelson’s judgement has been questioned. His political career has been punctuated by controversies, including his resignation from Tony Blair’s cabinet on two separate occasions.
Broadening Scrutiny: Jacqui Smith Also Named
The net of scrutiny is widening within the Labour ranks. Former Home Secretary Jacqui Smith, now also a peer, was similarly named in the unsealed documents. Records show she participated in a 2019 conference call with Epstein after his first conviction, a connection she describes as a minor professional error during her work in education.
This developing story continues to pose significant questions for the Labour leadership about transparency and accountability for its most prominent figures.
