Met Police Consider Criminal Investigation into Peter Mandelson Following Epstein File Disclosures
The Metropolitan Police have announced they are evaluating whether to initiate a criminal investigation into Labour peer Peter Mandelson, in light of new revelations from the Jeffrey Epstein files. These disclosures suggest that Mandelson, while serving as business secretary under Gordon Brown, may have sent emails containing confidential government information to the late financier and convicted sex offender.
Potential Legal Offences Under Scrutiny
Authorities have indicated they are reviewing reports related to possible misconduct in public office, a common law offence that carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. The SNP and Reform UK have formally reported Mandelson to the police, urging an investigation into any potential breaches. Emily Thornberry, Labour chair of the foreign affairs select committee, has also voiced support for a criminal inquiry, citing the seriousness of the alleged actions.
Key Revelations from the Epstein Documents
The latest files appear to show that Mandelson communicated sensitive details to Epstein during the global financial crisis. Alleged disclosures include:
- A confidential UK government document outlining £20 billion in asset sales.
- Claims by Mandelson that he was "trying hard" to influence government policy on bankers' bonuses.
- Information about an imminent euro bailout package, shared a day before its official announcement in 2010.
- A suggestion that the JPMorgan boss should "mildly threaten" the chancellor.
Additionally, other documents indicate that Epstein made payments totalling $75,000 (approximately £65,000) into bank accounts believed to benefit Mandelson. In September 2009, Epstein also sent £10,000 to Mandelson's partner, Reinaldo Avila da Silva, to fund an osteopathy course and other expenses.
Legal Framework for Misconduct in Public Office
To prove misconduct in public office, prosecutors must establish that a public officer wilfully neglected their duty or misconducted themselves to such an extent that it abused the public's trust, without reasonable excuse. This offence has faced criticism for being poorly defined and is currently being replaced by a new statutory offence. According to a Spotlight on Corruption report, there are fewer than 100 prosecutions annually, with most convictions involving police or prison officers, and no government members convicted since 2014.
Other Potential Offences and Market Abuse Concerns
If Mandelson leaked plans for the government's £20 billion asset sale, he could face investigation for market abuse. Such information could influence trading in UK government bonds, potentially violating civil offences with unlimited fines or criminal offences under the Criminal Justice Act 1993, which carry penalties of up to 10 years in prison. Mandelson has denied any wrongdoing, stating in a Times interview that the Epstein files do not indicate "wrongdoing or misdemeanour" on his part, though he admitted to a "lapse in judgment" regarding the payment to da Silva.
As the Met police continue their assessment, the case highlights ongoing scrutiny of political figures linked to Epstein and raises questions about transparency and accountability in public office.
