Peter Mandelson, one of the most influential figures in modern UK politics and a former envoy to Washington, has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office after new US government documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein entered the public domain.
The Metropolitan Police said officers detained a 72-year-old man at an address in Camden, north London today. He was taken to a police station in the capital for questioning.
Earlier this month, specialist crime officers searched two properties associated with Mandelson, one in London and another in Wiltshire. Television footage later showed him leaving his north London home in a police vehicle.
Focus on alleged disclosure of sensitive material
Investigators seek to determine whether Mandelson shared sensitive government material with Epstein during his time in office, including at the height of the 2008 financial crisis. Police have not identified the specific documents under review.
The case has reignited debate over Mandelson’s long-scrutinized association with Epstein. His relationship with the financier had already forced political damage last year, when earlier document releases exposed the extent of their contact.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer removed Mandelson from his post as the UK’s representative in Washington in September. Starmer later apologized to Epstein’s victims for the appointment and said Mandelson had not been transparent during the vetting process.
Broader political shockwaves
The arrest comes days after former prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, brother of King Charles III, faced detention and release under investigation in a separate misconduct inquiry also tied to the newly disclosed Epstein files. Authorities have not clarified whether the two probes intersect.
Mandelson’s legal representatives at Mishcon de Reya said he deeply regrets his association with Epstein and only understood the scale of the financier’s crimes after his death in 2019. The statement described his remorse and acknowledged the harm suffered by victims.
The government now plans to publish thousands of emails and internal records related to Mandelson’s appointment and vetting. Cabinet Office minister Darren Jones said the first batch will appear in early March. The disclosures may intensify pressure on Starmer, who has already faced criticism for his judgment.
Mandelson stepped down from the House of Lords earlier this month. His advisory firm, Global Counsel, has ceased operations and entered administration after several major clients withdrew their business.
No charges have been filed. The Metropolitan Police said inquiries remain active as officers assess the material contained in the latest US document release.