Police Ask Ministers Not to Share Messages About Lord Mandelson

Police have asked government ministers not to release their private messages with Lord Mandelson. This is because it could affect an important criminal investigation. The police want to make sure their work is not disturbed.
By Newsroom | UK Politics, Crime |

A criminal investigation into Lord Mandelson’s alleged sharing of sensitive government information with Jeffrey Epstein has led to official warnings against the publication of related communications. The Metropolitan Police has explicitly cautioned ministers against releasing their own messages with Lord Mandelson, arguing such actions could jeopardise their ongoing inquiry. This directive follows an instance where Health Secretary Wes Streeting published his text messages with the former ambassador.

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Background to the Investigation and Public Scrutiny

The current situation stems from a criminal investigation launched by the Metropolitan Police concerning allegations that Lord Mandelson shared sensitive government information with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This has prompted significant scrutiny of Lord Mandelson’s past dealings and his appointment as the UK’s ambassador to the US. The government is under pressure to disclose what was known about Lord Mandelson’s association with Epstein at the time of his appointment.

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  • Key Allegations: Lord Mandelson is accused of misconduct in public office for allegedly passing market-sensitive government information to Jeffrey Epstein.

  • Vetting Concerns: Questions have been raised about whether Lord Mandelson accurately disclosed the extent of his relationship with Epstein during his vetting process for the ambassadorship. Lord Mandelson's stated position is that he provided accurate answers.

  • Government Response: The government, initially resistant to releasing all documents, has been compelled by parliamentary pressure, particularly from Labour MPs, to agree to a review and potential release of files related to Lord Mandelson's appointment.

Actions by Health Secretary Wes Streeting

Health Secretary Wes Streeting released a number of his text messages with Lord Mandelson. This action was reportedly taken in response to "smear and innuendo" suggesting he had something to hide. Mr. Streeting’s spokesman indicated the messages were shared with news outlets as an attempt to clarify his position. The timing and nature of this disclosure, however, appear to have prompted the police warning to other ministers.

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  • Content of Messages: While specific details are not fully public, the messages reportedly span a period before and after decisions were made concerning Lord Mandelson. Some indicate discussions about government issues and election concerns.

  • Motivations: Streeting's release of messages is understood to be an effort to distance himself from the scandal and counter narrative.

Police Concerns Regarding Document Publication

The Metropolitan Police has formally communicated its concerns to the government. They have warned that the publication of messages or other documents exchanged with Lord Mandelson could undermine their criminal investigation.

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"Police warning the government not to release files which could undermine its investigation."

  • Impact on Investigation: The police are concerned that premature or uncontrolled disclosure of evidence could compromise due process, potentially affecting any future criminal proceedings.

  • Due Process: The police aim for a "timely and thorough process" to ensure justice. They are working with the Cabinet Office to review the documents and assess the potential impact of their release on the inquiry.

Parliamentary Pressure and Document Disclosure

Despite the police warnings, there is a strong push for transparency, led by parliamentary action. The government has agreed to allow Parliament's security watchdog, the Intelligence and Security Committee, to review and potentially release documents pertaining to Lord Mandelson’s appointment.

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  • Scope of Documents: The total number of documents being reviewed could be substantial, potentially reaching around 100,000 files. These could include private messages between Lord Mandelson and various government figures, ministers, and officials.

  • Political Implications: The release of these documents is politically charged, with some figures, including opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer, believing the files may show that Lord Mandelson misrepresented his ties to Jeffrey Epstein during his vetting.

Lord Mandelson's Stance

According to reports, Lord Mandelson maintains that he answered all questions accurately regarding his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein during the vetting process. He also reportedly has no record or recollection of specific payments mentioned in relation to Epstein. His dismissal from his ambassadorship last year occurred when new information regarding his association with Epstein came to light.

Evidence and Communications

  • Direct Warnings: The Metropolitan Police has issued direct warnings to ministers.

  • Published Communications: Health Secretary Wes Streeting released his communications with Lord Mandelson.

  • Government Commitments: The government has agreed to parliamentary oversight and the review of potentially extensive documentation.

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Sources:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are the police asking ministers not to share messages?
The police are investigating Lord Mandelson and worry that sharing messages could hurt their work and make it harder to find the truth.
Q: What is Lord Mandelson accused of?
He is accused of sharing secret government information with Jeffrey Epstein.
Q: Did anyone share messages already?
Yes, Health Secretary Wes Streeting shared his messages with Lord Mandelson. Police warned him and others not to do this.
Q: Will any documents be released?
Yes, Parliament's security group will look at many files about Lord Mandelson's old job and may release them.