In a dramatic turn of events, new emails released by the US justice department have sealed the fate of Peter Mandelson, the former Labour peer and de facto deputy prime minister. The revelations, which include intimate exchanges and professional consultations with the convicted financier Jeffrey Epstein, have led to Mandelson's resignation from the Labour party and calls for a police investigation, marking what may be the final scandal he cannot escape.
Intimate Exchanges and Professional Blur
The emails, part of millions recently made public, paint a vivid picture of a relationship that was both personal and professional, with boundaries so blurred they were virtually non-existent. In one poignant message from December 2010, Mandelson wrote to Epstein, "Where r u? I miss you," highlighting the emotional depth of their connection. This came after years of correspondence where Mandelson sought Epstein's advice on matters ranging from personal crises to career moves.
Leaked Documents and Financial Ties
Perhaps the most damning revelation is an email from June 2009, in which Mandelson appears to have leaked a sensitive Whitehall document to Epstein, who was under house arrest at the time. The document detailed the UK government's tax plans and intention to sell £20bn in assets, with Mandelson commenting, "Interesting note that's gone to the PM." This breach of confidentiality has raised serious questions about his conduct while in office.
Additionally, emails over the weekend suggested that Mandelson received three payments of $25,000 each from Epstein when he was a backbench MP in 2003 and 2004. Further messages indicated that his partner received thousands of pounds in 2009 and 2010 during Mandelson's tenure as business secretary. Mandelson has stated he has no recollection of these payments, but the evidence has prompted Keir Starmer to call for him to lose his title and seat in the House of Lords, launching an inquiry into his ministerial conduct.
A Friendship Forged in High Society
The origins of Mandelson's relationship with Epstein trace back to the early 2000s, introduced through social circles connected to Robert Maxwell's daughter, Ghislaine. By 2003, Mandelson described Epstein as his "best pal" in a 50th birthday book, and their bond only strengthened over the years. Despite Epstein's conviction in 2008, Mandelson continued to seek his counsel, even as he rose to prominent roles in Gordon Brown's government.
Career Consultations and Personal Support
Emails reveal that Mandelson frequently turned to Epstein for advice on both personal and professional matters. In March 2010, when Mandelson feared his partner had accessed his text messages, he immediately emailed Epstein for help, writing, "What shall I do? You may need to help." Epstein's response was cautious, suggesting they talk instead. Similarly, Mandelson consulted Epstein on financial decisions, such as borrowing £4m for a new house, and career moves post-2010 election, including a potential board position at Facebook.
Their exchanges were often marked by a tone of mutual reliance. In April 2009, Mandelson wrote, "Need to talk, feeling confused," and in July 2009, after Epstein helped mediate issues with his partner, Mandelson expressed gratitude, "Thanks for talking to Reinaldo... It did him (therefore me) a lot of good." Epstein's reply, "I as always am there," underscored the supportive nature of their friendship.
Political Fallout and Public Reaction
The drip-feed of these revelations in recent months has cost Mandelson dearly, leading to his withdrawal as US ambassador and now his resignation from the Labour party. The latest emails have sparked widespread outrage, with many viewing them as the epitaph for a politician whose career has been marred by scandals but who may have finally met his match. The calls for a police investigation add a legal dimension to his downfall, potentially threatening his legacy and status.
Historical Context and Broader Implications
Mandelson's ties to Epstein are set against a backdrop of high-profile connections, including interactions with figures like Donald Trump and members of the Rothschild family. His role in New Labour and subsequent positions in government make this scandal particularly impactful, raising questions about accountability and ethics in British politics. As the inquiry progresses, the full extent of their relationship and its consequences for UK governance may yet unfold.
In summary, the new Epstein emails have not only revealed the depth of Mandelson's involvement with the disgraced financier but have also triggered a swift political and social response, suggesting that this scandal may be the one he cannot outrun.
