Overview

• Messages reported by The Sun and other outlets quote Peter Mandelson telling Jeffrey Epstein to “fight for early release,” saying “I think the world of you,” and advising “strategy, strategy, strategy… Remember the Art of War.”
• Downing Street says Mandelson underwent the highest level of security vetting and the prime minister told Parliament he retains confidence in the UK’s ambassador to Washington.
• Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called Mandelson’s position untenable, Labour MPs urged his removal or testimony, and victims’ lawyers including Gloria Allred pressed for questioning and disclosure of correspondence.
• The emails follow the publication of Epstein’s 2003 50th birthday book by the US House Oversight Committee, in which Mandelson described Epstein as “my best pal,” a note he has called very embarrassing.
• Mandelson has apologized and says he regrets continuing the association, maintains he saw no wrongdoing, and has not been accused of sexual impropriety; separate reports allege Epstein advised on a 2010 RBS–JP Morgan deal, which remain unproven.