What's happened
Lord Mandelson, former UK ambassador to the US, was seen leaving his London home amid renewed scrutiny over his links to Jeffrey Epstein. Recent files reveal his social ties to Epstein, prompting US Congress requests for questioning and UK police investigations. The story unfolds as political fallout intensifies today, Feb 14, 2026.
What's behind the headline?
The emerging links between Lord Mandelson and Jeffrey Epstein highlight the deep entanglement of political and business elites in scandalous networks. The recent files, including a birthday book describing Mandelson as Epstein's 'best pal,' suggest longstanding associations that now threaten to undermine political credibility.
This story exposes how high-profile figures may have maintained covert relationships with Epstein, raising questions about oversight and accountability. The US Congress's demand for Mandelson's testimony indicates a shift towards scrutinizing foreign political figures involved in Epstein's circle.
The UK government’s response, including the resignation of key advisors and the review of Mandelson’s appointment, signals a broader reckoning with past associations. The story's timing suggests a strategic effort to contain political damage and possibly influence ongoing investigations. The outcome will likely impact UK-US diplomatic relations and the reputation of political figures linked to Epstein, with potential legal consequences for Mandelson and others involved.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that Mandelson's links to Epstein have led to calls for questioning by US Congress, citing evidence such as a birthday book and his stay at Epstein's New York apartment. Sky News emphasizes the political fallout, including calls for Mandelson to testify and questions over Prime Minister Starmer's judgment in appointing him. The Guardian highlights the investigation by US authorities and UK police, noting Mandelson's denial of wrongdoing and the ongoing review of his past associations. All sources agree that the revelations have significantly damaged Mandelson's reputation and triggered political and legal scrutiny, with some contrasting views on the severity of his involvement and the potential consequences.
How we got here
Lord Mandelson, a prominent UK politician and former ambassador, has been linked to Jeffrey Epstein through recent US Department of Justice files. These reveal social and business ties dating back over a decade, including shared sensitive information when Mandelson was Business Secretary in 2009. The revelations follow Epstein's criminal convictions and ongoing investigations into his network, which have caused political upheaval in the UK and US.
Go deeper
More on these topics
-
Peter Benjamin Mandelson, Baron Mandelson PC is a British Labour politician, president of international think tank Policy Network, honorary president of the Great Britain–China Centre, and chairman of strategic advisory firm Global Counsel.
-
Jeffrey Edward Epstein was an American financier and convicted sex offender. He began his professional life as a teacher but then switched to the banking and finance sector in various roles, working at Bear Stearns before forming his own firm.
-
The United States Congress is the legislative branch of the federal government of the United States. It is a bicameral legislature, including a lower body, the U.S. House of Representatives, and an upper body, the U.S. Senate. They both meet in the United
-
Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.