In recent days Peter Mandelson, the former British ambassador to the United States and veteran Labour peer, has made a notable reversal in his stance regarding his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. After initially refusing in a high-profile BBC interview to apologise directly to Epstein’s survivors — instead expressing regret for systemic failures that left victims unheard while insisting he was unaware of Epstein’s crimes and not personally culpable — Mandelson has since issued a clear public apology for continuing his association with Epstein after the financier’s 2008 conviction. In his updated statement, he said he was “wrong to believe him following his conviction and to continue my association with him afterwards,” and offered an unequivocal apology to the women and girls who suffered. While he maintains he did not witness Epstein’s abuse or know the full extent of his crimes, Mandelson acknowledged that victims did know what was happening, and expressed sorrow that he had once believed Epstein’s denials.

This apology marks a significant shift from his earlier remarks, which sparked widespread outrage and political consequences — including his dismissal as ambassador after undisclosed emails showing a much deeper, supportive friendship with Epstein came to light. Mandelson’s u-turn reflects growing pressure and criticism over his past behaviour, as he now seeks to address the pain of survivors rather than primarily defending his own reputation. The reversal also comes amid broader debates in the UK about accountability among elites who maintained ties with Epstein post-conviction, and follow-up calls for further scrutiny of Mandelson’s conduct during his career.



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Lord Mandelson apologises to victims of Jeffrey Epstein | The Independent