Mandelson, a Friend of Epstein’s, Became U.S. Ambassador Despite Failing Security Vetting
The New York Times • • world
Key Points:
- British vetting officials advised against granting Peter Mandelson the highest security clearance before his appointment as ambassador to the US, but the foreign office overruled this recommendation.
- Neither Prime Minister Keir Starmer nor any government minister was aware until recently that Mandelson received "developed vetting," the top security clearance, despite the formal security team's objections.
- Mandelson was dismissed from his ambassadorial role in September after leaked emails exposed his close ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, sparking controversy and damaging Starmer's government.
- The revelations have intensified political criticism of Starmer’s judgment and contributed to his low approval ratings ahead of upcoming local elections.
- Starmer had earlier claimed that full due process was followed in Mandelson’s vetting but acknowledged that the process was insufficient and has since been strengthened.
