British Prime Minister apologizes to Epstein victims amid political fallout

British Prime Minister apologizes to Epstein victims amid political fallout

On February 5, 2026, United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer issued a public apology to victims of Jeffrey Epstein. Starmer acknowledged regret over appointing Peter Mandelson as the UK ambassador to Washington, D.C. after documents released from the U.S. Department of Justice showed extensive links between Mandelson and Epstein.

Starmer said he was misled about Mandelson’s associations with Epstein and expressed intent to cooperate fully with ongoing legal processes. The revelations have drawn widespread criticism and intensified scrutiny of Starmer’s leadership, with some political figures calling for accountability.

Peter Mandelson resigned from the House of Lords as pressure mounted following the release of documents suggesting a troubling relationship with Epstein. Starmer’s government faces internal dissent and increased media examination of vetting processes for diplomatic appointments.