Starmer admits mistake in appointing Mandelson as US ambassador
Mar 20th 2026
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has taken responsibility after documents raised concerns about Peter Mandelson's ambassadorship and his links to Jeffrey Epstein, while Downing Street rejects claims of a cover-up.
- Starmer said the released files show what was known about the appointment.
- He accepted responsibility and apologised to Jeffrey Epstein's victims for the decision to send Peter Mandelson to Washington.
- Downing Street denied there was a cover-up over the release of the documents.
- Government papers flagged a general reputational risk because of Mandelson's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.
- Starmer said a Metropolitan Police investigation prevents the release of some information.
- The absence of Starmer's comments in the files prompted questions about whether proper procedures were followed.
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