In recently surfaced images from the Epstein files, former prince Andrew, Peter Mandelson, and Jeffrey Epstein are captured together for the first time. The photographs, part of a large release by the US Department of Justice, depict the trio seated around a wooden table with mugs adorned with the stars and stripes flag. Mandelson and Andrew are dressed in white bathrobes, while Epstein opts for a shirt and jumper.
Although known to have connections with the deceased financier, this marks the initial visual confirmation of the three men together. The specific date and location of the picture remain unclear, but another image featuring Mandelson in a similar robe was found in a file labeled “Epstein birthday book.”
Calls have emerged for Mandelson to return a £75,000 payout he received upon his dismissal as US ambassador last year. Various figures, including government officials, are urging the former peer to reimburse the sum, which he settled for after initially requesting a £500,000 settlement.
During a press briefing in Paisley, Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander emphasized the importance of Mandelson repaying the money, suggesting it could be directed towards charities or organizations aiding victims of exploitation, particularly those impacted by Jeffrey Epstein’s actions.
Recent revelations from the Epstein files disclose Mandelson’s involvement in leaking confidential government documents to Epstein during his tenure in Gordon Brown’s cabinet. Additionally, correspondence from Mandelson to Epstein prior to the latter’s criminal conviction in the US sheds light on their relationship dynamics.
Following public scrutiny over his ties to Epstein, Mandelson chose to step down from the House of Lords and resign from the Labour Party. However, legal constraints allow him to retain his title as Lord Peter Mandelson of Foy and Hartlepool. Proposed legislation is in the works to revoke Mandelson’s peerage, with Downing Street indicating a broader scope to address breaches of conduct by other peers as well.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office confirmed efforts to expedite the removal of Mandelson’s peerage through legislative measures. The proposed bill aims to encompass any peer found violating regulations and tarnishing the reputation of the House of Lords.
Meanwhile, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who was stripped of his royal titles last year, remains out of the public eye since his recent arrest on suspicion of misconduct in a public office. Although no charges have been filed, investigations into the matter are ongoing.
