Starmer faces scrutiny over Mandelson's sacking
Sir Keir Starmer sacked Lord Mandelson as UK ambassador to Washington after emails showed his close link to Jeffrey Epstein. The move raises questions about the vetting process and transparency around high-profile appointments.
Sir Keir Starmer is under pressure over what he knew of Lord Mandelson's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein before appointing him UK ambassador to Washington. The prime minister dismissed Mandelson after emails emerged showing the depth of their friendship in 2008, when Epstein faced charges of soliciting sex with a minor.
The government said the correspondence revealed a relationship "materially different" from what was known during the vetting process. Conservatives have called for the release of all documents and communications related to Mandelson's appointment.
Published emails spark controversy
Emails disclosed by newspapers show Mandelson urging Epstein to "fight for early release" shortly before his 18-month sentence, and describing him as "the world of you" the day before he began his prison term. A Downing Street spokesperson described the messages as "reprehensible".
Political fallout and reactions
Following questions in Parliament, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said the prime minister had "failed another key test of leadership" by previously defending Mandelson. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey urged Starmer to explain why Mandelson was appointed given the government's prior knowledge.
Mandelson's response and interim ambassador
In a letter to embassy staff, Lord Mandelson described his ambassadorship as "the privilege of my life" and expressed deep regret over his past association with Epstein. James Roscoe has been named interim ambassador to oversee next week's state visit.
Emails revealing Lord Mandelson’s decade-old friendship with Jeffrey Epstein prompted his dismissal as ambassador and intensified calls for transparency in high-level appointments.
This topic was reported by BBC.
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