Lord Mandelson Resigns from Labour Party Amid Epstein Controversy
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Lord Mandelson has announced his decision to resign as a member of the Labour Party, stating that he wishes to avoid “causing further embarrassment” due to his associations with the late convicted paedophile, Jeffrey Epstein.
Previously serving as a cabinet minister, Lord Mandelson was dismissed from his post as US ambassador last year, a decision linked to his earlier connections with Epstein. His name appeared in the most recent batch of documents released by the US Department of Justice on Friday.
Documents indicate that Epstein made three separate payments to Lord Mandelson, each for $25,000, in 2003 and 2004, totalling $75,000 (£55,000).
In a letter addressed to the Labour Party’s general secretary, Lord Mandelson expressed his regret, stating: “I have been further linked this weekend to the understandable furore surrounding Jeffrey Epstein and I feel regretful and sorry about this.”
Lord Mandelson took the opportunity to reiterate his apology to the women and girls affected, acknowledging that their voices should have been recognised much earlier.
He reflected on his longstanding commitment to the Labour Party’s principles and achievements, stressing that his decision to resign was made in what he believes to be the best interests of the party.
Earlier on Sunday, Lord Mandelson stated that he was uncertain about the authenticity of newly released documents. He once again expressed regret for his association with Epstein and for maintaining contact after Epstein’s conviction, offering an unequivocal apology to the women and girls who suffered as a result.
