Former British Ambassador to the United States Peter Mandelson was released on bail hours after his arrest Monday on suspicion of misconduct in public office, according to the Metropolitan Police.
Mandelson Arrested in Connection with Epstein Allegations
The Metropolitan Police (Met) reported that a 72-year-old man was released pending further investigation. BBC News observed Mandelson returning to his London home at 02:00 GMT.
Mandelson was arrested Monday at an address in Camden, north London, and taken to a police station for questioning. The Met launched a criminal investigation earlier this month into allegations that Mandelson passed market-sensitive government information to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein while serving as a government minister.
The arrest followed two search warrants executed at addresses in Wiltshire and Camden, according to a police statement. Mandelson has not publicly commented on the Epstein files in recent weeks, but the BBC understands his position is that he has not acted criminally and was not motivated by financial gain.
Emails released by the US Department of Justice last month appear to show Mandelson forwarded a 2009 evaluation of a then-Prime Minister Gordon Brown advisor regarding policy measures, including an “asset sale plan.” He also appeared to discuss a tax on bankers’ bonuses and confirm an impending Euro bailout package the day before its 2010 announcement.
In response to Mandelson’s arrest, the family of the late Virginia Giuffre, who accused Prince Andrew of sexual abuse, released a statement praising British authorities for taking “significant action” and treating the Epstein files “with the urgency they deserve.” Prince Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing in his relationship with Epstein.
US politicians have called for Mandelson to answer questions about Epstein as part of a Congressional investigation. Mandelson began working for the Labour Party in the 1980s and played a key role in the New Labour movement and Tony Blair’s landslide electoral victory in 1997.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Peter Mandelson accused of?
Peter Mandelson is accused of misconduct in public office related to allegedly passing market-sensitive government information to Jeffrey Epstein while serving as a government minister.
Has Mandelson responded to the allegations?
Mandelson has not made public statements in recent weeks regarding the Epstein files, but the BBC understands his position is that he has not acted criminally and was not motivated by financial gain.
What is the status of the investigation?
Mandelson has been released on bail pending further investigation. Consultations between the police and the Crown Prosecution Service are ongoing.
Given the ongoing investigation and potential for document release, it remains to be seen what further developments may unfold in this case.
