London’s Metropolitan Police have taken into custody Peter Mandelson, the former British ambassador to the United States, as part of an ongoing investigation into misconduct within public office. The arrest, which occurred at a north London residence, marks the second high-profile detention within days connected to the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, following the recent apprehension of the former Prince Andrew.
The 72-year-old diplomat, who served under previous Labour administrations, faces allegations of improperly sharing sensitive government information with the disgraced financier Epstein during his tenure as a senior minister. While no sexual misconduct charges have been brought against Mandelson, the investigation centers on communications from 2009 that suggest he provided Epstein with confidential documents, including internal reports discussing post-financial crisis asset sales and potential tax policy changes.
The arrest follows the release of over three million pages of Epstein-related documents by the U.S. Justice Department in January, which contained explosive revelations about Mandelson’s relationship with the convicted sex offender. Correspondence indicates Mandelson referred to Epstein as ‘my best pal’ and allegedly promised to lobby government colleagues regarding bankers’ bonus taxation.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer had previously dismissed Mandelson from his ambassadorial position in September after evidence emerged showing continued contact with Epstein following his 2008 conviction. The appointment had already placed Starmer’s leadership under scrutiny, with his political future potentially hinging on the scheduled release of documents related to Mandelson’s selection in early March.
Mandelson, a controversial figure nicknamed ‘Prince of Darkness’ for his political maneuvering, has resigned from the House of Lords but retains his lifetime peerage title. The investigation continues as police examine evidence gathered during searches of Mandelson’s properties in London and western England.