Starmer apologises to Epstein victims as Mandelson scandal continues

Prime Minister Keir Starmer apologised to victims of Jeffrey Epstein's abuse for having believed Peter Mandelson's 'lies' when appointing him as ambassador, and ministers agreed that a parliamentary committee will oversee publication of documents about Mandelson's appointment after MPs threatened to rebel.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer apologised to victims of Jeffrey Epstein's abuse as he sought to steady his leadership after a turbulent day in parliament. He said he was sorry for having believed what he called 'lies' from former minister Peter Mandelson when appointing him as UK ambassador to Washington and for the public way the issue had unfolded. Starmer did not apologise for the decision to appoint Mandelson despite acknowledging Mandelson had maintained a relationship with Epstein after Epstein's conviction. The statement followed a Commons dispute over whether documents about Mandelson's appointment should be published. Key points: - Keir Starmer apologised to victims for having believed Peter Mandelson's 'lies' and for the public handling of the matter. - Starmer said he would not apologise for appointing Mandelson despite awareness of Mandelson's continued relationship with Epstein after conviction. - Labour MPs threatened to rebel over publication plans, prompting a government change of approach. - Ministers agreed that a parliamentary committee, rather than senior civil servants, will oversee publication of the documents about Mandelson's appointment. Summary: The developments have further strained the prime minister's authority and raised questions about senior appointments and oversight. Undetermined at this time.