Britain sacks Mandelson as US ambassador over Epstein links

LONDON – Britain has sacked Mr Peter Mandelson as its ambassador to the US over his relationship with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, its Foreign Ministry has said.

Mr Mandelson – dubbed the “Prince of Darkness” for his behind-the-scenes manoeuvring during the last Labour government – was forced from the most sought-after diplomatic post after his letters and e-mails to Epstein were published this week.

The veteran Labour politician, 71, who was key to the party’s success under former leader Tony Blair, came under scrutiny over his relationship with Epstein after

a birthday book

was released, including a letter purportedly from the now ambassador describing Epstein as “my best pal”.

Further e-mails published in the media showed Mr Mandelson had advised Epstein to fight for early release when he faced charges over soliciting a minor.

“In light of the additional information in e-mails written by Peter Mandelson, the prime minister has asked the foreign secretary to withdraw him as ambassador,” Britain’s Foreign Ministry said on Sept 11.

“The e-mails show that the depth and extent of Peter Mandelson’s relationship with Jeffrey Epstein is materially different from that known at the time of his appointment,” it said.

The ministry said the revelation of Mr Mandelson’s suggestion that Epstein’s first conviction was wrongful and should be challenged was “new information”.

Mr Mandelson later said he deeply regretted ever meeting Epstein, and that he had carried on that association “for far longer than I should have done”, suggesting he had believed the lies of a “charismatic criminal liar”.

Epstein, who died in prison in 2019, had counted princes and the political elite among his friends, many of whom have since been tarred by the association. Britain’s Prince Andrew, a younger brother of King Charles, was removed from official royal duties over his ties to Epstein. He denies any wrongdoing. REUTERS