Government 'told to block key Mandelson email release' as ex-peer faces criminal probe
The Metropolitan Police has reportedly asked that emails between Mandelson and Downing Street not be published as part of an impending release of files
Police have asked that key emails from Peter Mandelson about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein be blocked from release amid a criminal investigation into the former peer, reports claim.
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Sources speaking to POLITICO claim that the Metropolitan Police has asked that emails exchanged in December 2024 between Mandelson and former Downing Street chief of staff Morgan McSweeney be excluded from an upcoming release of files.
Parliament voted last month to compel the Government to release all files related to Mandelson's appointment as Britain's ambassador to the United States.
The Labour grandee was sacked from the role after being accused of lying about his relationship with disgraced financier Epstein.
The Met is currently investigating allegations that the ex-peer committed misconduct in a public office by sharing sensitive information with the sex offender while Business Secretary in 2009 and 2010.
Mandelson has apologised to the victims of Epstein and has said he regrets their association.
“I want to say loudly and clearly that I was wrong to believe him following his conviction and to continue my association with him afterwards,” he has said.
Today, POLITICO reported that the force has warned the Government that releasing these emails between could jeopardise their probe.
Reportedly included in the exchange was Mr McSweeney asking Mandelson three questions about his ties to Epstein as part of the vetting process for his appointment.
The emails, sent on behalf of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, could form a key piece of evidence in understanding what the Government knew of Mandelson's friendship with Epstein at the time.
Previous reports claimed that McSweeney asked Mandelson why he stayed in contact with Epstein after his 2008 conviction for child prostitution, as well as why he stayed at one of Epstein's homes while the financier was locked up for the offence.
Two sources reportedly spoke to POLITICO about the request from investigators.
The emails are one of a "handful" which the Met has asked the Government not to publish.
Met Police Commander Ella Marriott said on December 4, that the force had asked the Government “not to release certain documents at this time.”
A separate Met Police spokesperson told POLITCO: “An investigation into alleged misconduct in public office is underway and it is vital due process is followed so that our criminal investigation and any potential prosecution is not compromised.
“As part of our enquiries, we will review material identified and provided to us by the Cabinet Office to assess whether publication is likely to have a detrimental impact on our investigation or any subsequent prosecution.
"We will work alongside the Cabinet Office to review relevant documents over the weeks ahead. The process to decide which documents should ultimately be published remains a matter for Government and Parliament.”
A Cabinet Office spokesperson told POLITICO: “We do not comment on police investigations.”