Lord Peter Mandelson has publicly refused to issue a direct apology to the victims of convicted paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein for maintaining their friendship after his initial conviction. The senior Labour figure instead stated he had paid a 'calamitous' price himself, citing his dismissal from a diplomatic role, but maintained he was not culpable for Epstein's crimes.
'Misplaced Loyalty' and a 'Most Terrible Mistake'
Speaking on Sunday 11 January 2026, Lord Mandelson labelled Epstein an 'evil monster' but stopped short of saying sorry for his continued association with him. He offered an apology for a system that failed the victims, yet explicitly not for the friendship itself. He described his loyalty to Epstein as 'misplaced' and a 'most terrible mistake'.
The extent of their relationship was laid bare in a series of emails, which revealed Mandelson had urged Epstein to 'fight for early release' from prison. The correspondence also showed Mandelson held the disgraced financier in high regard in the period leading up to his jail sentence.
Political Reaction and Criticism
The revelation has drawn sharp criticism from across the political spectrum. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander was among those to voice disapproval, criticising Mandelson's 'deep naivety' in the matter.
Alexander suggested that a sincere apology from the former minister would have been significant for those affected by Epstein's actions. She noted that the full details of Mandelson's connection to Epstein have only recently come to light, adding weight to the victims' calls for accountability.
The fallout from Mandelson's admissions and his refusal to apologise directly continues to develop, raising further questions about the links between powerful political figures and the convicted sex offender.
