Metropolitan Police Open Criminal Investigation Into Lord Mandelson
The Metropolitan Police have launched a criminal investigation into Lord Peter Mandelson following allegations of misconduct in public office linked to his past association with Jeffrey Epstein.
The inquiry follows the emergence of documents that appear to show Mandelson sharing government-related information with the US financier while serving as business secretary during the global financial crisis. Authorities confirmed they are examining material that may involve the disclosure of market-sensitive details.
In a statement, police said they had begun investigating a 72-year-old former government minister after receiving multiple reports, including a referral from the government. Officers added that further information would be assessed as part of the ongoing inquiry, but no additional details would be released at this stage.
Government officials said they are prepared to assist the investigation if required. The development comes amid mounting political pressure after newly disclosed records suggested Mandelson had correspondence with Epstein during a period of economic instability in 2008 and 2009.
According to the documents under review, messages from that time appear to reference discussions around financial measures being considered by the government in response to the banking crisis. Some communications are also said to touch on international economic support plans.
Mandelson has not publicly commented on the investigation but has previously denied any criminal wrongdoing. He has also stated that he has no recollection of receiving financial payments allegedly linked to Epstein and disputes claims that such transactions took place.
Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown said he had shared relevant material with police and described the alleged communications as deeply troubling, particularly given the national effort underway at the time to stabilise the economy. He said the matter warranted full examination by law enforcement.
Political leaders from across the spectrum have called for clarity on how the situation was handled and what oversight existed regarding Mandelson’s past associations. Questions have also been raised about the vetting processes surrounding his previous diplomatic appointment.
Mandelson recently announced his intention to step down from the House of Lords. While resignation would end his role in the chamber, he would retain his life peerage unless further legal or parliamentary action is taken.
The investigation follows a wider release of court documents connected to Epstein, whose network of contacts has drawn renewed scrutiny in several countries. Epstein died in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.
Police emphasised that the investigation is at an early stage and that no conclusions have been reached.
