UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer apologized on Thursday for appointing Peter Mandelson as the British Ambassador to the United States, expressing deep regret over a decision that had been made last year. Initially appointed due to Mandelson’s extensive experience in trade and international relations during his tenure as Secretary of Trade and Industry, Mandelson has since acknowledged that he regrets associating with Jeffrey Epstein.
Mandelson stated, “I feel a tremendous sense of sympathy for those people who suffered as a result of his behavior and criminal activities.” Starmer also took responsibility, saying, “It had been publicly known for some time that Mandelson knew Epstein, but none of us knew the depth and darkness of their relationship.”
Starmer promised to pursue truth and integrity in public life, pledging to ensure accountability. Neither he nor Mandelson has faced accusations of misconduct from Epstein survivors; however, UK politicians highlighted the precarious nature of Starmer’s decision upon his apology.