London, United Kingdom. British police on Tuesday launched an investigation into Peter Mandelson over alleged misconduct in public office after claims he leaked market-sensitive information to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The inquiry follows reports received by the Metropolitan Police, including a referral from the British government.
Metropolitan Police opens inquiry
London’s Metropolitan Police said in a statement that the investigation follows the receipt of reports alleging misconduct in public office. Police Commander Ella Marriott said the force would continue to assess all relevant information brought to its attention and would not comment further at this time.
Government referral and response
Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government handed material to the police to investigate whether Mandelson leaked information to Epstein during the financial crash. Starmer told his ministers on Tuesday that Mandelson’s alleged leaks to Epstein were “disgraceful.”
Following the announcement of the investigation, a government spokesperson said it stood “ready to provide whatever support and assistance the police need.”
Mandelson retirement and potential charges
A few hours after Starmer’s remarks, Mandelson said he would retire from parliament’s upper house, the House of Lords. Mandelson, a major figure in the Labour governments of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, is facing possible criminal charges after emails released by the US as part of the Epstein investigation suggested he had leaked confidential government documents to the financier.
Reported details and expected interviews
The Times, which first reported the police investigation, said officers were expected to interview Mandelson and take statements from senior Labour figures, including former Prime Minister Brown.
The emails suggest that in 2009, Mandelson sent Epstein a memo written for Brown about possible UK asset sales and tax changes, and in 2010 gave Epstein advance notice of a 500-billion-euro ($590 billion) bailout by the European Union.
Separate review involving Prince Andrew
Separately, Thames Valley police were reviewing a new claim against the former Prince Andrew, according to a Guardian report.
What impact could the police investigation have on the Labour Party’s senior figures?