The Metropolitan Police are set to formally initiate a criminal investigation into serious allegations concerning Peter Mandelson, the former business secretary. The probe focuses on claims that Mandelson leaked Downing Street emails and market-sensitive information to the late financier and convicted child sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein.
Documents from Epstein Files Spark Political Fury
Recently released documents from the Epstein files appear to show that Mandelson sent confidential information in a series of emails to Epstein following the 2008 financial crash. This has triggered a furious response from across the political spectrum, including from Gordon Brown, who was prime minister at the time of the alleged breaches.
Members of Parliament have reported Mandelson to Scotland Yard for misconduct in public office, escalating the matter into a formal police inquiry. In a significant development, Mandelson resigned from the House of Lords on Tuesday afternoon, as pressure mounted over the scandal.
Starmer's Response and Legislative Action
Keir Starmer, who has provided a dossier to the police, expressed his appallment at the reported leaks during a Cabinet meeting. He has directed officials to draft legislation aimed at stripping Mandelson of his peerage "as quickly as possible," highlighting the gravity of the situation.
The prime minister's spokesperson confirmed that the Cabinet Office is reviewing all available information related to the documents. An initial assessment of the Epstein files, released by the US Department of Justice on Friday, indicated they contain information likely to be market-sensitive, pertaining to the 2008 financial crisis and subsequent economic stabilisation efforts.
Brown's Involvement and Email Contents
Gordon Brown has written to the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Sir Mark Rowley, providing information relevant to the investigation into Mandelson's alleged disclosures. The emails forwarded to Epstein from the highest levels of the UK government reveal several concerning actions:
- Mandelson claimed he was "trying hard" to alter government policy on bankers' bonuses.
- He shared details of an imminent euro bailout package a day before its official announcement in 2010.
- He suggested that the JP Morgan boss should "mildly threaten" the chancellor.
During the 2010 coalition talks, with Mandelson offering counsel, Brown ultimately decided to step down as prime minister. Hours before announcing his departure outside Number 10, Mandelson emailed Epstein, stating, "Finally got him to go today."
Political Fallout and Further Disclosures
MPs are now pushing for additional disclosures from Downing Street, including from the prime minister's chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, regarding what Mandelson was questioned about prior to his appointment as US ambassador. This indicates a broader scrutiny of the appointment process and potential oversight failures.
Wes Streeting, the UK health secretary, described Mandelson's association with Epstein as a "betrayal on so many levels." However, he noted that it is unclear how the Cabinet Office or Starmer could have been aware of the leaking of confidential information to Epstein beforehand.
The investigation marks a significant escalation in a scandal that has rocked UK politics, with implications for government transparency, accountability, and the handling of sensitive economic information. As the Met Police delve into the allegations, further details are expected to emerge, potentially reshaping public trust in political institutions.
