Mandelson Sacked as US Ambassador Over Epstein Emails
Peter Mandelson has been removed as the UK’s ambassador to the US after newly uncovered emails exposed a far closer relationship with Jeffrey Epstein than what was previously known. In messages from 2008, Mandelson called the convicted paedophile his "best pal", told him "I think the world of you", and urged him to "fight for early release" shortly before Epstein began an 18-month sentence for soliciting sex from a minor. The Foreign Office confirmed the sacking on Thursday, saying 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."
The decision followed a review on Wednesday night of the emails by the Prime Minister, who reportedly had not seen the messages prior to Mandelson’s December appointment. The PM’s spokesperson described the contents as “reprehensible,” while the Foreign Office noted Mandelson’s suggestion that Epstein’s first conviction “was wrongful and should be challenged” as especially troubling. With US President Trump due to visit the UK next week, the timing proved politically difficult—particularly since Mandelson would have played a key role in the state visit.
Mandelson, who said he had "foolishly" trusted Epstein’s claims of innocence, has faced past controversies but was thought to be doing a strong job in Washington. His long and turbulent political career—marked by high-profile comebacks, cabinet resignations, and his role in New Labour—was often as much about style as substance. His appointment by Sir Keir Starmer had already been criticised as cronyism; now, opposition leaders are demanding answers on why the vetting process failed.
With Mandelson out, Deputy Head of Mission James Roscoe has stepped in as interim ambassador. The fallout has added to a rough week for the government, following the resignation of Deputy PM Angela Rayner over an unrelated financial issue. As for Mandelson, once known for his slick PR stunts and political survivability, this may finally mark the end of his decades-long run in public life—brought down by ties to a scandal no amount of spin could rescue.
