Peter Mandelson To Face Police Investigation Amid Epstein Scandal
A criminal investigation has been launched into allegations Peter Mandelson passed market-sensitive information to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.
Files released by the US Department of Justice apparently showed Lord Mandelson passing material to Epstein while serving as business secretary in Gordon Brown’s government in the wake of the 2008 financial crash.
The Cabinet Office had passed material to the police after an initial review of documents released as part of the so-called Epstein files found they contained “likely market-sensitive information”.
Brown himself has also written to Met commissioner Sir Mark Rowley setting out his concerns about “unpatriotic” Mandelson’s behaviour.
Commander Ella Marriott of the Metropolitan Police said: “Following the further release of millions of court documents in relation to Jeffrey Epstein by the United States Department of Justice, the Met received a number of reports into alleged misconduct in public office including a referral from the UK Government.
“I can confirm that the Metropolitan Police has now launched an investigation into a 72-year-old man, a former Government minister, for misconduct in public office offences.
“The Met will continue to assess all relevant information brought to our attention as part of this investigation and won’t be commenting any further at this time.”
It has also been announced that Mandelson is to quit the House of Lords on Wednesday.
A government spokesperson said: “The government stands ready to provide whatever support and assistance the police need.”