Politics · 4 February 2026
Starmer admits prior knowledge of Mandelson–Epstein ties amid PMQs row
©House of Commons via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Prime Minister Keir Starmer acknowledged that the vetting process for Lord Peter Mandelson’s appointment as UK ambassador to the US had considered his stay at Jeffrey Epstein’s home, despite political pressure over the controversy. At Prime Minister’s Questions, Starmer said the full extent of the relationship was not known at the time and accused Mandelson of lying during the vetting process. The Government faces demands to release documents, as opposition parties escalate attacks over the scandal.
Reported by GB News · How we write briefs