'PRINCE OF DARKNESS' GETS CHOP

UK’S AMBASSADOR TO THE US PETER MANDELSON NO STRANGER TO SCANDAL

- STORY: ELLE MILLIGAN / BLOOMBERG

When Peter Mandelson was appointed the UK’s ambassador to the US in February, many in the British government predicted it would end in a scandal.

Lord Mandelson, a political operator once known as the “Prince of Darkness’ for his capacity for political intrigue and spin, was fired by Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday after Bloomberg published a series of emails between Lord Mandelson and convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, which cast new light on their relationship.

Lord Mandelson twice resigned from Tony Blair's cabinet at the turn of the century due to scandals over relationships with wealthy businessmen.

His ties with Epstein were known when he was made ambassador — although he had denied that they were extensive and said he regretted them.

But Mr Starmer’s office concluded fresh revelations in the emails show “the depth and extent” of their relationship “is materially different from that known at the time of his appointment.”

The timing could hardly be worse for the British government, which is preparing to host US President Donald Trump's second state visit, a trip due to begin on Tuesday, which Lord Mandelson played a leading role in arranging.

Mr Trump is also facing questions over his alleged links with Epstein — who died in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges — after the release of a “birthday book” containing celebratory messages for Epstein, one of which was allegedly signed by Mr Trump. The president denies writing the note.

Lord Mandelson contributed 10 pages to the book, calling Epstein his “best pal.”