Today in Focus Mandelson files: Starmer admits ‘I made a mistake’ – The Latest
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Mar 12, 2026 Archie Bland, Guardian head of national news, unpacks newly released Mandelson files and their political fallout. He outlines revelations about vetting, Epstein links, and a contested ambassadorship decision. He also discusses rushed procedures, euphemistic civil service language, and the optics of a negotiated payoff.
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Starmer Overruled Clear Reputational Warnings
- New documents show Keir Starmer and senior aides overruled formal warnings about reputational risk when appointing Peter Mandelson as US ambassador.
- The released tranche clarifies the vetting timeline and internal advice, revealing a politically driven process that proceeded despite clear cautions.
Documents Detail Mandelson's Epstein Contacts
- Documents specify Mandelson stayed in Jeffrey Epstein's house while Epstein was jailed and continued contact into 2009–2011, including while Mandelson was business secretary.
- Those details deepen concerns about judgment and complicate the government's claim it had fully addressed the issue before appointment.
Security Clearance Granted Before Vetting Completed
- The materials show Mandelson was offered high-level security access before vetting completed and Jonathan Powell called the process 'weirdly rushed.'
- These details suggest political urgency over standard civil service caution in granting clearance.