Overview
- Reports say King Charles wrote two notes that questioned Peter Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador to Washington, including the line “Do you really think that’s wise?” when asked to grant formal approval.
- The Foreign Office’s approval pack included a flattering CV that left out Mandelson’s past government resignations and his links to Jeffrey Epstein, a gap that reportedly surprised the King.
- The government has released an initial batch of files that included the formal letter seeking royal approval, with more papers promised though some are likely to be withheld for police, security or diplomatic reasons.
- Mandelson and Andrew Mountbatten‑Windsor were arrested last month on suspicion of misconduct in public office and released under investigation, and prosecutors are providing early investigative advice to police.
- Mandelson was named ambassador in December 2024 and was dismissed in September 2025 after fresh reporting on his Epstein ties, and he says he will cooperate with investigators and denies wrongdoing.