Newly released government files have intensified criticism of U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as Britain’s ambassador to the United States, revealing that officials warned of reputational risks tied to Mandelson’s association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The 147-page dossier, made public after pressure from lawmakers, shows Starmer was advised in December 2024 that Mandelson’s continued friendship with Epstein following the financier’s 2008 conviction for procuring an underage girl posed a “general reputational risk.” The documents indicate concerns were raised during the vetting process, but the appointment proceeded.

According to the files, Starmer’s national security adviser, Jonathan Powell, described the process as “weirdly rushed” and expressed concerns about Mandelson’s reputation to then–chief of staff Morgan McSweeney. Philip Barton, the permanent secretary at the U.K. Foreign Office, also raised reservations about the decision.

Despite those warnings, Mandelson received high-level briefings before completing full vetting. Records show his vetting clearance was not confirmed until Jan. 30, 2025.

The political appointment, announced in late 2024 and taking effect in February 2025, bypassed career diplomats in favor of Mandelson, who advisers believed could help manage relations with the incoming administration of U.S. President Donald Trump. Starmer’s team moved forward after Mandelson addressed questions about Epstein during the security review process.

However, new details from files released by the U.S. Department of Justice concerning Epstein surfaced in September 2025, leading to Mandelson’s dismissal on Sept. 11 after about nine months in the diplomatic role.

The documents highlight Mandelson’s post-conviction ties to Epstein, including a reported stay at Epstein’s residence in June 2009 while the financier was serving a jail sentence and communications urging an early release. The files also reference a 2002 meeting arranged by Mandelson between Epstein and then–Prime Minister Tony Blair, which at the time was described as a discussion about science and economic trends.

Mandelson has denied wrongdoing. He is currently under police investigation related to separate allegations of misconduct in public office.

Following his dismissal, Mandelson initially sought about $700,000, representing the remaining value of his four-year contract that paid roughly $200,000 per year. The dispute was ultimately settled for about $96,000, including discretionary payments. Cabinet Office minister Darren Jones described Mandelson’s initial demand as “inappropriate and unacceptable” and said the government agreed to the smaller payment to avoid a legal tribunal.

Responding to the release of the documents, Starmer accepted responsibility for the decision. “It was me that made the mistake, and it’s me that makes the apology to the victims of Epstein,” he said, adding that Mandelson had misled officials about the depth of the relationship.

Opposition lawmakers sharply criticized the appointment. Conservative shadow minister Alex Burghart accused Starmer of a “complete and utter failure of judgment,” while Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, called the settlement payment an insult to Epstein’s victims and urged that the money be donated to charity.

In response to the controversy, the government announced reviews of vetting procedures for political appointments and ministerial interests, saying sensitive roles will require full security clearance before being publicly announced. Officials said thousands of additional documents may still be released after further police and security reviews as scrutiny continues over the decision-making behind Mandelson’s appointment.