London: Keir Starmer is under mounting pressure within the Labour Party after new US Justice Department documents shed further light on Peter Mandelson’s relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Although Starmer never met Epstein, the fallout from the financier’s global network has created a political crisis for the prime minister.

Starmer appointed Mandelson, a senior Labour figure, as the UK ambassador to Washington in 2024. The decision has now come under intense criticism after documents revealed Mandelson maintained contact with Epstein following his 2008 conviction for sex offences involving a minor. Newly released records include email exchanges and financial details, including payments totalling USD 75,000 made by Epstein in 2003 and 2004 to accounts linked to Mandelson or his husband.

In September, Starmer dismissed Mandelson after the emails became public. British police are investigating Mandelson over potential misconduct in public office. He is not accused of sexual offences and has denied witnessing any wrongdoing.

The controversy deepened after Starmer acknowledged in the House of Commons that Mandelson’s continued friendship with Epstein after 2008 had been known during the 2024 vetting process. The statement caused shock among MPs. Starmer later clarified that he had meant only that it was publicly known the two men had known each other.

On Thursday, Starmer apologised to Epstein’s victims, stating that Mandelson had misled him about the extent of the relationship. He said he was sorry for having believed Mandelson’s assurances.

The government plans to release documents related to the vetting process. However, some material may be withheld due to the ongoing police investigation or reviewed by Parliament’s Intelligence and Security Committee for national security reasons.

Criticism has come from within Labour ranks. MP Paula Barker said the prime minister’s judgment was questionable and that he would need to rebuild trust within the party and the public. Other lawmakers have urged Starmer to dismiss senior adviser Morgan McSweeney, who is widely seen as influential in Mandelson’s appointment.

The controversy adds to a series of challenges for Starmer since Labour’s landslide election victory in July 2024. His government has faced difficulties in delivering economic growth, improving public services and easing the cost-of-living crisis. Despite this, Starmer has received praise internationally for his diplomatic efforts, including maintaining European support for Ukraine and rebuilding ties with the European Union.

Labour has been trailing Reform UK in opinion polls, and the Mandelson revelations have intensified speculation about a possible leadership challenge. Upcoming elections, including a February 26 by-election in Greater Manchester and regional and local polls in May, are expected to test the party’s standing further.

Political analysts say the decision to appoint Mandelson could have long-term consequences for Starmer’s leadership, with some suggesting it may define the trajectory of his premiership.
(With AP inputs)