Government Looks Again at Lord Mandelson's Pay After He Left US Job

The government is reviewing the money paid to Lord Mandelson when he stopped being the UK's ambassador to the US. This is happening after people asked questions about his past and his links to Jeffrey Epstein.
By Newsroom | Politics, International Relations |

Government Re-evaluates Financial Settlement Amid Public Scrutiny

A significant financial settlement provided to Lord Mandelson after his dismissal as the UK's ambassador to the United States is now under review by the Foreign Office. This development follows public and political pressure, amplified by revelations concerning his association with Jeffrey Epstein. The settlement, described as a "five-figure" sum, was reportedly paid after Mandelson's tenure ended in September of the previous year, just seven months into his appointment.

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Background and Timeline of Events

  • Lord Mandelson was appointed UK ambassador to the US.

  • In September of the previous year, he was sacked from his ambassadorial role. The stated reason for his dismissal involved his links with Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender.

  • Following his dismissal, a financial settlement was reached between Lord Mandelson and the Foreign Office. Details regarding the exact amount of this settlement have not been publicly disclosed, though it is referred to as a "five-figure" payment.

  • Recent reports and the release of documents have intensified scrutiny on Mandelson's conduct, including allegations of sharing market-sensitive information during his time as a government minister.

  • Police have conducted searches at properties linked to Lord Mandelson as part of an investigation into alleged misconduct in public office.

  • Following these developments, the Foreign Office has confirmed a review into the exit payment made to Lord Mandelson.

Key Facts and Evidence

  • The Foreign Office has confirmed that a financial settlement was made with Lord Mandelson.

  • Sources indicate the payment was equivalent to three months' salary.

  • The review was prompted by Mandelson's sacking in September over his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.

  • Ministers have publicly stated that Lord Mandelson should either return the payment or donate it to charity.

  • There are reports of alleged leaking of information to a friend when Mandelson was a government minister.

  • Police have investigated claims of misconduct in public office, including searches of his properties.

The Review Process

The Foreign Office has initiated a review into the financial settlement granted to Lord Mandelson. This review is likely to examine:

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  • The appropriateness of the payment itself, considering the circumstances of Mandelson's dismissal.

  • The terms and conditions under which the settlement was agreed.

  • Whether the payment aligns with government financial regulations and public accountability standards.

  • The process leading to the payment, including any vetting procedures related to his appointment and subsequent departure.

Allegations of Misconduct and Information Sharing

Beyond the exit payment, concerns have been raised regarding Lord Mandelson's past conduct.

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  • Association with Jeffrey Epstein: This connection is the primary catalyst for his dismissal as ambassador and has fueled public outcry.

  • Market-Sensitive Information: Reports suggest that Mandelson may have shared information that could be considered market-sensitive, leading to calls for an investigation by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which enforces market abuse laws.

  • Misconduct in Public Office: Police investigations into alleged misconduct in public office have led to property searches, indicating the seriousness of the allegations.

Public and Political Reaction

The handling of Lord Mandelson's exit payment and the associated revelations have generated considerable political reaction.

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  • Calls for Repayment: Government sources and ministers have explicitly called for Lord Mandelson to return the money or donate it to a charity supporting victims.

  • Sense of Betrayal: Some ministers have expressed feelings of anger and betrayal, particularly those who have known Mandelson for an extended period.

  • Scrutiny of Vetting: Questions have been raised about the vetting process for Mandelson's appointment as ambassador, suggesting potential oversight failures.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The Foreign Office's review of Lord Mandelson's exit payment signifies a critical juncture in addressing public and political concerns. The outcome of this review will likely depend on the findings regarding the justification for the payment and the circumstances surrounding Mandelson's departure. Further developments may arise from the ongoing police investigation into alleged misconduct and potential FCA inquiries into information sharing. Lord Mandelson's representatives have been approached for comment.

Sources Used

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is the government looking at Lord Mandelson's payment?
The government is reviewing the money because of questions about his links to Jeffrey Epstein and his past actions.
Q: How much money did Lord Mandelson receive?
It was a five-figure sum, reported to be about three months' salary.
Q: What else is being looked into?
Police are also looking into claims of misconduct in public office and possible sharing of important information.