London, September 11(HS): Sir Keir Starmer is under intense scrutiny following revelations about UK Ambassador to the US, Lord Peter Mandelson’s, close ties to the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Newly released documents by US lawmakers include a letter from Mandelson referring to Epstein as his “best pal” and emails showing Mandelson’s supportive messages to Epstein during legal battles in 2008. Despite calls from Conservative leaders and some Labour MPs for Mandelson’s resignation, Prime Minister Starmer has publicly backed him, citing a full vetting process before his appointment and Mandelson’s expressed regret over the association.

The controversy was heightened by reports that Mandelson urged Epstein to “fight for early release” shortly before Epstein received imprisonment for soliciting prostitution from a minor. Mandelson has admitted to maintaining the relationship “far longer than I should have,” acknowledging he was misled by Epstein’s assurances of innocence, which he now deeply regrets. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch condemned Mandelson’s position as “untenable,” demanding his immediate dismissal and transparency over background checks prior to his ambassadorship.

Within Labour, the revelations have caused discomfort, with several MPs publicly calling for Mandelson to step down, questioning Starmer’s judgment amid ongoing party challenges. The Labour peer’s historical political influence contrasts starkly with the current turmoil surrounding his widely criticized connections. The issue adds pressure to the government just days before President Trump’s scheduled state visit to the UK, during which preparations continue despite the diplomatic fallout.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar