UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Apologises Over Mandelson Appointment, Says He Feels Public Anger

London | 

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has issued a public apology over the appointment of Peter Mandelson as the United Kingdom’s ambassador to Washington, saying he understands and feels the public anger when powerful individuals appear to escape scrutiny.

Starmer said he regretted trusting what he described as false assurances given by Mandelson at the time of the appointment and admitted that the decision had caused deep public concern, especially in the context of the Jeffrey Epstein case.

“I feel the anger that people experience when those with power avoid proper investigation,” Starmer said. “I am sorry that I relied on Mandelson’s claims and appointed him.”

Files Cannot Be Released Immediately

The Prime Minister said his government wanted to release Mandelson-related files as soon as possible, but doing so would go against police advice, as it could interfere with ongoing investigations or future legal proceedings.

Starmer stressed that while the issue troubled him personally, he would not take politically popular steps if they risked undermining justice for victims.

“I am personally disturbed by this, but I will not take tempting political actions that could jeopardise justice for victims,” he said.

Reference to Epstein Victims

Referring directly to survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse, Starmer said their suffering was beyond what most people could imagine.

“Epstein’s victims endured pain that most of us cannot even begin to comprehend,” he said, reiterating his apology for the appointment decision.

Background of the Controversy

Keir Starmer appointed Peter Mandelson as Britain’s ambassador to the United States in December 2024. The controversy resurfaced after the US Department of Justice released additional Epstein-related files last week, including emails that allegedly confirm Mandelson’s association with Epstein.

The release of these documents renewed public and political scrutiny, leading to calls for accountability and transparency over Mandelson’s role and the government’s decision-making process.

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