UK Government Refers Material To Police

UK government refers material to police after review of Mandelson–Epstein emails, Downing Street says
Downing Street confirms that the UK Cabinet Office has passed material to the police following a review of newly released emails involving Lord Peter Mandelson and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, amid allegations of improper handling of sensitive government information.

1. Material referred to police
   The UK government’s Cabinet Office has referred material to the Metropolitan Police after an initial examination of emails from the Epstein files a large cache of documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice found they “likely contain market-sensitive information” and that official safeguards may have been compromised.
2. Allegations against former minister
   Some of the emails appear to show Lord Peter Mandelson, who served as Business Secretary and later UK ambassador to the U.S., forwarding internal government information to Epstein in 2009 while he was a senior Cabinet minister. This has sparked concerns about breaches of confidentiality and possible misconduct in public office.
3. Police review of misconduct claims
   The Metropolitan Police has said it is reviewing reports of alleged misconduct in public office related to these disclosures, with the force assessing whether the material meets the threshold for a formal criminal investigation.
4. Government ready to cooperate
   A government spokesperson emphasized that it is for the police to decide whether to pursue an investigation, and that the UK government stands ready to provide full support and assistance as required.
5. Political fallout and pressure
   Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has described the alleged transmission of sensitive information as “disgraceful” and publicly stated that Mandelson “let his country down.” Downing Street has also tasked officials with drawing up proposals to potentially strip Mandelson’s peerage and restrict his use of the title, reflecting rising political pressure.
   According to reporting, some of the released emails include exchanges from 2009 and 2010 in which Mandelson appears to have discussed internal UK government matters including discussions about tax policy, banking bonuses, asset sales, and potential bailout plans with Epstein.
   The revelations have intensified scrutiny of Mandelson’s past relationship with Epstein and triggered calls from multiple political parties and figures for a thorough investigation. Lawmakers from the SNP, Liberal Democrats, and Reform UK have publicly urged law enforcement and parliamentary review.
   Lord Mandelson has denied recollection of certain alleged financial interactions referenced in the files and has indicated that he believes some document details require his own investigation. His position in the House of Lords has come under direct question as a result of the controversy. The Metropolitan Police is now reviewing misconduct claims to decide if they warrant criminal investigation. Downing Street says the government will fully cooperate with law enforcement. There is growing cross-party political demand for accountability, including potential legislative action against Mandelson’s peerage.