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Documents on Lord Mandelson's US ambassador role to be published
The British government will release its second-and largest-set of documents Monday concerning Lord Peter Mandelson's short-lived appointment as UK ambassador to the United States, three sources familiar with the process told the BBC.
Publication details
While Downing Street has not officially confirmed the date, a government spokesperson described the upcoming batch as "one of the largest publications ever laid before Parliament." The release coincides with Parliament's return from a week-long recess.
The documents stem from a February parliamentary vote that compelled the government to disclose all materials related to Mandelson's appointment through a "humble address."
Initial resistance and compromise
The government initially opposed the motion, citing concerns over national security and diplomatic relations. A last-minute agreement sent sensitive materials to the Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC), which determined what could be made public. The first tranche was published in March.
Key revelations from earlier documents
The March release revealed that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer had been warned of a "general reputational risk" tied to Mandelson's association with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Starmer's national security adviser, Jonathan Powell, described the appointment process as "weirdly rushed."
Government stance and redactions
A government spokesperson reiterated a commitment to "complying with the Humble Address in full," calling the process "transparent and thorough." However, some documents will be redacted to protect national security, international relations, or the identities of junior officials.
The Metropolitan Police have requested that Mandelson's vetting file be withheld while they investigate him on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Mandelson has denied any wrongdoing and stated he is cooperating with authorities.
Background on Mandelson's appointment and sacking
Sir Keir appointed Mandelson to the Washington post in December 2024, praising his "unrivalled experience." Nine months later, Mandelson was dismissed following further disclosures about his long-standing friendship with Epstein.
"My friendship with Epstein was a terrible mistake, but I never saw anything in his life that would give me any reason to suspect what this evil monster was doing."
Lord Peter Mandelson
MPs from multiple parties have criticized Starmer's decision to appoint Mandelson, who remains under criminal investigation. Mandelson has consistently maintained he acted without personal gain and did not commit any criminal acts.
