PM backs Mandelson after Epstein 'best pal' regrets

THE Prime Minister says he has "confidence" in Lord Mandelson after it emerged the British ambassador to the US had described paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein as his "best pal".

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Speaking at Prime Minister's Questions yesterday, Sir Keir Starmer said "due process was followed" during the appointment of Lord Mandelson to the position.

Downing Street repeatedly evaded questions on how much the Prime Minister knew about the former Labour minister's association with Epstein at the time of his appointment.

Sir Keir's official spokesman continued to point reporters to the "extensive vetting" of Lord Mandelson, as well as his previous comments on his association with the paedophile financier.