Police Probe Peter Mandelson Over Alleged Leaks to Jeffrey Epstein
Published 6 February 2026
Highlights
- Police searched two properties linked to Peter Mandelson in Camden and Wiltshire as part of an investigation into misconduct in public office.
- Mandelson is accused of leaking market-sensitive information to Jeffrey Epstein during his tenure as business secretary.
- The investigation follows the release of documents suggesting Mandelson's involvement with Epstein, including financial transactions and leaked information.
- The UK government has pledged full support to the police investigation, while Labour MPs express discontent over Mandelson's past appointment.
- Mandelson has not been arrested, and the investigation is ongoing, with a potential interview under criminal caution expected soon.
In a significant development, the Metropolitan Police have conducted searches at two properties linked to former Labour minister Peter Mandelson as part of an investigation into allegations of misconduct in public office. The properties, located in Camden, north London, and Wiltshire, were searched following claims that Mandelson passed market-sensitive information to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein.
The investigation was launched after documents released by the US Department of Justice suggested that Mandelson, while serving as business secretary in Gordon Brown's government, leaked information to Epstein. These documents include emails from 2008, indicating discussions about a one-off tax on bankers' bonuses and a €500bn EU bailout plan.
Mandelson, who was present at the Camden property during the search, has not been arrested. He has previously expressed regret over his association with Epstein, apologizing to the victims of Epstein's crimes. The police, under a warrant granted by a magistrates court, are focusing on securing electronic devices and documents as part of their evidence-gathering efforts.
The investigation has sparked political controversy, with Labour MPs expressing anger over Mandelson's past appointment as the UK's ambassador to the US, a decision made despite knowledge of his ties to Epstein. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has agreed to release thousands of documents related to Mandelson's appointment, amid calls for accountability within the Labour Party.
What this might mean
As the investigation progresses, the potential implications for both Mandelson and the Labour Party are significant. If evidence substantiates the allegations, Mandelson could face serious legal consequences, including charges of misconduct in public office, which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Politically, the controversy may further strain relations within the Labour Party, with some MPs already calling for leadership changes.
The release of documents related to Mandelson's appointment could reveal further details about the extent of his relationship with Epstein, potentially impacting public trust in the party. The situation underscores the broader issue of political accountability and the need for transparency in government appointments, particularly when past associations with controversial figures are involved.
