Labour grandee Peter Mandelson's links to the disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein became a central issue during a rigorous US security vetting process for a potential ambassadorial appointment, The Independent can reveal.
The peer, a key architect of the New Labour era, was reportedly in consideration for the prestigious role of British ambassador to the United States following the 2020 election. However, his candidacy was ultimately not pursued by Downing Street.
Security Vetting Grilling Over Epstein Links
According to sources familiar with the matter, Mandelson's extensive social and professional connections to Epstein were a primary focus during the standard security clearance procedure. The vetting, conducted by UK authorities, is understood to have involved deeply probing questions about the nature and extent of their relationship.
This intense scrutiny highlights the significant potential for embarrassment and complication his appointment could have caused for the UK government, given Epstein's status as a convicted sex offender and the subsequent investigations into his activities.
A Role That Never Materialised
Despite being sounded out for the role, Lord Mandelson was never formally offered the position of ambassador to Washington. The decision not to proceed with his appointment was made by the then-Prime Minister's office, averting a potential diplomatic and political storm.
The revelation raises pointed questions about the vetting process for high-level political appointments and the shadow that past associations can cast over a candidate's suitability for a sensitive diplomatic post.
Starmer's Stance on the Scrutiny
When questioned about the vetting process and Mandelson's Epstein links, a spokesperson for Sir Keir Starmer stated the Labour leader had "full confidence" in the peer. The party has declined to comment further on what it describes as a "private process."
This episode serves as a stark reminder of how historical associations with controversial figures can resurface to challenge the political elite, testing the robustness of security protocols at the highest levels of government.
