Police searched two properties belonging to Lord Peter Mandelson on Friday as part of an investigation into alleged misconduct in public office. The searches of addresses in London and Wiltshire mark a significant escalation in scrutiny of the former cabinet minister's relationship with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein and allegations he shared market-sensitive information while serving as business secretary during the financial crisis.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed searches at properties near Regent's Park in central London and in Wiltshire on Friday afternoon. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Hayley Sewart said: «The searches are related to an ongoing investigation into misconduct in public office offences, involving a 72-year-old man.» She added: «He has not been arrested and inquiries are ongoing.»
The investigation centers on accusations that Lord Mandelson sent sensitive information to Epstein while serving as Gordon Brown's business secretary. Emails from 2009 appear to show sensitive information was shared on at least four occasions. One email referenced an «asset sales plan» being assessed by Mr Brown's adviser.
Political fallout intensifies
The Prime Minister accused Lord Mandelson of lying about his relationship with Epstein during vetting for his appointment as ambassador to the United States last year. In a speech on Thursday, the Prime Minister said: «none of us knew the depth of the darkness.» He apologized to Epstein's victims for believing what he called Lord Mandelson's «lies».
Sir Keir Starmer is under pressure over Mandelson's appointment and faces calls to sack his chief of staff Morgan McSweeney over the decision. Documents released by the US Department of Justice recently revealed the apparent extent of Mandelson's relationship with Epstein.
Document release process
Downing Street agreed on Wednesday to cede control of documents related to Mandelson's appointment to Parliament's Intelligence and Security Committee. The committee must review the documents, with potential delays if the Government wishes to withhold items for national security reasons. The Metropolitan Police has requested some documents be withheld, claiming release could jeopardize its criminal investigation.
The BBC understood Lord Mandelson maintains he did not act criminally and that his actions were not for personal gain. He has not spoken publicly about the investigation. The UK Government said it «stands ready to provide whatever support and assistance the police need».
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
