The UK criminal investigation into Peter Mandelson has encountered a major setback due to the United States Department of Justice declining to provide crucial files related to Jeffrey Epstein. Scotland Yard’s efforts to uncover the truth have been significantly delayed, raising concerns that any formal charges may not be brought forward until 2028.
At the heart of the dispute is a collection of heavily redacted documents held by the US Department of Justice. British detectives believe these files could contain vital evidence concerning Peter Mandelson, who previously served as business secretary and as the British ambassador to Washington.
The Metropolitan Police requested voluntary disclosure of the documents, but the US Department of Justice refused. Instead, they require a formal Mutual Legal Assistance request, a legal process known for its lengthy duration, often extending beyond 18 months. Even direct appeals from Met Police Chief Sir Mark Rowley to the US ambassador, as well as his personal visit to Washington, have failed to persuade the Americans to cooperate.
Without access to the original documents, British prosecutors are unable to open a charging file, meaning a decision on whether to press charges could be delayed for several years.
The investigation began in January following leaked US Justice Department documents suggesting that Mandelson passed sensitive government secrets to Jeffrey Epstein during his time in Gordon Brown’s cabinet. The alleged information includes details about a multi-billion-pound EU bailout, the timing of Brown’s resignation, and potential land deals involving Epstein.
Mandelson was arrested in February at his home in Regent’s Park, questioned for nine hours, and subsequently released on bail. He denies all allegations of wrongdoing. Another individual involved in the investigation is Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who was also arrested but has yet to face charges.
The refusal by Washington to cooperate has sparked anger in the UK. Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that after reviewing Epstein’s files last summer, “there was nothing in there that allowed us to prosecute anybody.” This position persists despite bipartisan calls for further action. Even Melania Trump has urged Congress to identify the abusers named in the files, saying: “Epstein was not alone.” Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump has called for the country to move on, stating: “It’s really time for the country to get on to something else.” Trump’s close association with Epstein over 15 years has fueled speculation that he fears the consequences if prosecutions expand. Republican congresswoman Marjorie Taylor-Greene suggested Trump is concerned his friends “would get hurt,” a claim dismissed by the White House as “petty bitterness.” This complex political context means the US refusal to assist the UK has significant implications. The withheld files contain sensitive information linked to ongoing US investigations, and Scotland Yard insists on full access before proceeding with any prosecutorial actions.
Domestically, Mandelson’s arrest has already caused political turmoil for Sir Keir Starmer’s government. Mandelson’s controversial appointment as UK ambassador to Washington has become a contentious issue. With the criminal case stalled indefinitely, both Tory critics and the public express frustration over the apparent US stonewalling and the absence of justice.
Originally published by UKNIP.
