Overview
- Newly published Epstein files report that Peter Mandelson passed confidential government information to Epstein and received payments, and he has since quit Labour and the House of Lords.
- Keir Starmer publicly apologized to Epstein’s victims and said Mandelson lied about his ties during the ambassador selection process.
- Downing Street has been told to publish records from the appointment process, potentially including Starmer’s messages, with national security and diplomatic exemptions.
- Senior Labour figures stepped up criticism, with Harriet Harman calling Starmer weak, naive and gullible and urging a shake‑up of his team.
- Pressure has centered on chief of staff Morgan McSweeney, whom several MPs say should go, while Ian Byrne warned Starmer is in a very dangerous position and suggested he consider his role.