Keir Starmer has released the initial batch of documents concerning Peter Mandelson’s appointment as the UK’s ambassador to Washington. This action follows the government’s agreement last month to disclose thousands of records related to Lord Mandelson’s 2024 appointment amid concerns over his vetting process and connections to Jeffrey Epstein.
The documents, which were made public after Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday, reveal startling details about the vetting procedures. Notably, it was disclosed that Peter Mandelson received a £75,000 severance payment upon his dismissal as Britain’s ambassador to Washington, despite requesting over half a million pounds.
Keir Starmer removed Mandelson from the position in September after revelations surfaced indicating that Mandelson had provided guidance to Jeffrey Epstein regarding underage sex charges. The Prime Minister later accused Lord Mandelson of dishonesty regarding the nature of his association with Epstein.
The released files confirm that the Foreign Office paid Mandelson £75,000, comprising £40,330 due to insufficient notice and a £34,670 termination payment. However, Mandelson sought a payout exceeding £500,000, equivalent to the full salary he would have earned during a four-year tenure.
Lord Mandelson faced calls to donate his severance payment to charity following his dismissal. In his farewell email to Foreign Office colleagues, he expressed remorse over his past association with Epstein, despite ongoing contact with the convicted sex offender.
Concerns were raised by officials, including the UK’s national security adviser, Jonathan Powell, regarding Lord Mandelson’s appointment. Powell highlighted unusual aspects of the appointment process and expressed reservations about Mandelson’s reputation.
The due diligence review raised significant reputational risks associated with appointing Lord Mandelson, not only due to his links to Epstein but also related to his past controversies, political affiliations, and business dealings.
Following his dismissal as Ambassador to Washington, Lord Mandelson sought assistance from the Foreign Office to minimize media intrusion upon his return to the UK. Additionally, there were fears within the Foreign Office that Mandelson might make damaging claims against the government if compensation arrangements were not promptly agreed upon.
During a crucial meeting attended by senior Labour MPs and officials, Keir Starmer acknowledged the concerns surrounding Peter Mandelson’s connections to Epstein, leading to the decision to terminate Mandelson as Ambassador to Washington.
The documents also revealed that the Prime Minister’s decision to ask Mandelson to resign was influenced by the revelation of undisclosed details of Mandelson’s relationship with Epstein, as demonstrated in emails released by Bloomberg.
