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Starmer Faces Backlash Over Epstein Ties in Ambassador Appointment

3/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Newly released documents show UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer was warned of reputational risks in appointing Peter Mandelson as the U.S. ambassador due to ties to Jeffrey Epstein.
Starmer appointed Mandelson, who was later dismissed after further details about their relationship emerged.
The documents show Mandelson maintained contact with Epstein after the 2008 conviction and stayed at Epstein's home while incarcerated, prompting scrutiny of Starmer's vetting and calls for accountability.

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Story summary

Newly released documents show UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer was warned of reputational risks in appointing Peter Mandelson as the U.S. ambassador due to ties to Jeffrey Epstein.
Starmer appointed Mandelson, who was later dismissed after further details about their relationship emerged.
The documents show Mandelson maintained contact with Epstein after the 2008 conviction and stayed at Epstein's home while incarcerated, prompting scrutiny of Starmer's vetting and calls for accountability.