Peter Mandelson's resignation from the Labour party marks what many see as the definitive end of his political career. Unlike his previous departures from cabinet posts and the Washington ambassadorship, this time there are no obvious routes back. The release of further Jeffrey Epstein files has revealed closer ties between Mandelson and the disgraced financier, prompting former allies to distance themselves.
Tony Blair, who previously defended corrupt figures, offered no support. George Osborne, who shared a yacht with Mandelson in Corfu, remained silent. Keir Starmer, who less than a year ago sent Mandelson to cultivate Donald Trump, now seeks to sever all connections. Starmer is exploring options to remove Mandelson from the House of Lords and prevent him from using his title, and wants him to testify before the US Congress.
The Epstein files show three payments of $25,000 to Mandelson in 2003-04. Mandelson claims no memory of the payments. In 2009, while serving as business secretary, he allegedly shared sensitive cabinet documents with Epstein, including advance warning of a €500bn euro bailout. He also advised Epstein on UK taxes on banker bonuses, suggesting the director of JP Morgan should be 'mildly threatening' towards then chancellor Alistair Darling.
Mandelson's husband, Reinaldo, emailed Epstein in 2009 requesting money for an osteopathy course. After receiving $10,000, he asked if the course fees of £3,250 had been paid separately. The revelations have led to calls for investigations from Kemi Badenoch and Ed Davey, who demanded a police inquiry.
