A member of the Labour party expressed deep concern over emails allegedly exchanged between Peter Mandelson and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
During an interview with BBC’s Charlie Stayt, Mike Tapp reacted to a message from Mandelson to Epstein, stating “I think the world of you.” The pressure on Keir Starmer to remove Mandelson as the US Ambassador is escalating amid growing discontent within the Labour Party.
According to a backbench MP, there is no support within the Labour Party for Mandelson, who assumed the Ambassador role recently. The MP emphasized that if Mandelson does not resign promptly, the Prime Minister should take action to dismiss him.
Despite defending Mandelson in Parliament during PMQs, Starmer faces increased criticism as more incriminating emails, including one sent while Epstein faced legal charges, have emerged. The email, dated 2008, revealed Mandelson’s emotional distress and encouragement for Epstein to fight for early release, eliciting discomfort from observers.
In response to the revelations, Tapp voiced his disturbance over the emails, highlighting the importance of examining Mandelson’s statements of regret and awareness at the time. However, he indicated that Mandelson is likely to retain his position as Ambassador.
Calls for Mandelson’s immediate removal are gaining momentum, with Labour MPs emphasizing the untenable nature of his position. The lack of support within the party for Mandelson’s actions is causing internal strife, with demands for accountability and swift action from the Prime Minister.
Critics, including Labour MP Nadia Whittome and left-winger Kim Johnson, are questioning the judgment of the Prime Minister for appointing Mandelson despite prior knowledge of his association with Epstein. Whittome insisted on standing with the victims and demanded Mandelson’s immediate dismissal.
Lord Mandelson expressed deep regret for maintaining ties with Epstein for an extended period, acknowledging his mistake. He denied any business relationship with Epstein after his criminal charges but admitted to a personal connection. Mandelson expressed embarrassment over the content of the emails and emphasized that he relied on false assurances of Epstein’s innocence.
US lawyer Gloria Allred, representing Epstein survivors, urged Mandelson to voluntarily cooperate with investigators for questioning. Allred emphasized the importance of actions over words in supporting the survivors and called for Mandelson’s resignation if he refuses to assist in the investigation.
