Epstein Files Intensify Pressure on Mandelson as Friend Declares: "This is the End"

The latest release of documents related to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein has sent shockwaves through the political establishment, placing prominent figures under renewed scrutiny. Among those facing intensified pressure is Lord Peter Mandelson, the former cabinet minister and UK ambassador to the United States. In a stark and personal televised address, long-time friend and broadcaster Trevor Phillips delivered a damning assessment, declaring that for Mandelson, "this is the end."

Phillips' Blunt Message to a "Friend"

Speaking at the commencement of his programme, Trevor Phillips addressed Lord Mandelson directly, referencing a friendship spanning nearly five decades. Phillips, who has worked extensively with Mandelson, stated it was "a friend's privilege to tell you that you are ill-suited to a role, even that you are a complete idiot." This sentiment, Phillips revealed, had previously been directed at him by Mandelson regarding his own political aspirations.

While Phillips confirmed he had not spoken to Mandelson personally about the recent Epstein revelations – an invitation for Mandelson to appear on the show was declined – he conveyed Mandelson's statement that neither he nor his husband, Reinaldo Avila da Silva, have any recollection of receiving payments in 2003 or 2004 from Epstein, nor do they know if the documentation is authentic. However, Mandelson does acknowledge that Reinaldo received a $10,000 loan from Epstein when Mandelson was a senior cabinet minister, and that Epstein was among those lobbying him on policy matters during that period. Despite "no suggestion that Lord Mandelson has done anything unlawful," Phillips asserted, "I would claim the friend's privilege to tell Peter that he has been, at best naive and foolish, at worst greedy and duplicitous. Whatever is true as far as politics and public office are concerned, for Peter Mandelson, this is the end," Sky News reports.

Growing Calls for Testimony Amid New Revelations

The release of further information linking individuals to Jeffrey Epstein over the weekend has intensified calls for both Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Lord Peter Mandelson to testify before the US Congress. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has already been stripped of his titles and royal roles due to his association with Epstein, while Lord Mandelson was reportedly sacked from his diplomatic post. There have also been suggestions that the New Labour grandee should lose his peerage, adding to the mounting pressure.

Housing Secretary Steve Reed, speaking on the same programme, reiterated the sentiment that "if anybody has information or evidence that they can share that might help to understand what's gone on and bring justice for these victims then they should share it," specifically mentioning Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, Lord Mandelson, and "anybody else." The minister stressed that individuals have a "moral obligation to share what they know."

Starmer's Inevitable Call for Transparency

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has also weighed in on the ongoing controversy, reiterating his stance on the need for transparency. Royal correspondent Rhiannon Mills noted the inevitability of the Prime Minister being questioned on Andrew and the Epstein files, pointing out that similar calls for openness were made in November when the US Congress oversight committee wrote to Andrew. Starmer's consistent phrasing, emphasizing that individuals should "talk and share what they know," and that "it's up to Andrew to decide his next move – whether that's opening up or an apology," highlights a carefully chosen approach. The repeated use of "anybody" is particularly telling, suggesting a broader expectation of disclosure.

Mills observed that while commenting on royal matters is usually avoided by prime ministers, particularly on personal issues, Starmer's consistent line feels like a deliberate choice designed to minimise friction with the monarchy. This position may have been emboldened by the King's decisive actions against Andrew last year, yet the intense public demand for answers makes such calls for openness from all involved virtually unavoidable, according to Sky News.

Pictures of Mandelson Surface

Adding another layer to the unfolding saga, images described as depicting Peter Mandelson in his underwear have been released by the US Department of Justice. These images, part of the latest tranche of material from the DOJ, show the former cabinet minister talking to a woman wearing a bathrobe. The exact زمان and location of these photographs, as well as the individuals involved, remain unknown.

A spokesperson for Mandelson told Sky News: "No one can say who or where the photo was taken. Lord Mandelson has absolutely no idea or indeed whether it has any connection to Epstein at all." It is important to note that merely appearing in a photograph within the Epstein files does not inherently indicate wrongdoing.

Political Repercussions and Other News

Beyond the Epstein revelations, other political developments unfolded. The Conservatives confirmed Charlotte Cadden, a former police officer, as their candidate for the Gorton and Denton by-election. Green Party leader Zack Polanski, initially speculated to stand in the by-election, confirmed he would instead aim for a London seat, stating his intention to run when an opportunity arises in the capital. A Labour spokesperson sarcastically remarked on Polanski's decision, "If Zack Polanski thought the Greens had a chance in Gorton and Denton he wouldn't have chickened out standing himself."

Meanwhile, Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O'Neill articulated her belief that a referendum on a united Ireland should be held by 2030, presenting it as an opportunity for the people of Northern Ireland to "take control of our own fortunes." This statement appears to diverge from previous comments made by Ireland's premier, Micheal Martin.