Mandelson called Epstein 'best pal' in birthday message

September 9, 2025

A "birthday book" for Jeffrey Epstein containing a letter from Lord Mandelson, the UK's current ambassador to the US, has been released by US lawmakers after being subpoenaed by the House Oversight Committee. In the 2003 message, Mandelson referred to Epstein as his "best pal" and an "intelligent, sharp-witted man," alongside several photos documenting their relationship. Lord Mandelson's spokesperson stated that he "has long been clear that he very much regrets ever having been introduced to Epstein.

Who is affected

Lord Mandelson, the UK's ambassador to the US
Jeffrey Epstein (deceased convicted pedophile)
US President Donald Trump (alleged to have contributed to the book)
Ghislaine Maxwell (Epstein's convicted co-conspirator who compiled the book)
The victims of Epstein's crimes (indirectly)

What action is being taken

US lawmakers are releasing copies of the "birthday book" after the documents were subpoenaed by the House Oversight Committee
Lord Mandelson's spokesperson is issuing statements expressing regret over his association with Epstein
The White House is denying the authenticity of President Trump's alleged contribution to the book
Donald Trump is suing the Wall Street Journal, seeking $10 billion in damages related to their reporting on the birthday book

Why it matters

The documents reveal connections between a high-ranking UK diplomat and a convicted sex offender before his crimes became public. A 2019 JP Morgan report described Epstein as having a "particularly close relationship" with Lord Mandelson when he was "a senior member of the British government." The birthday book provides documentary evidence of their relationship, with Mandelson writing that Epstein "remains my best pal" and describing visits to Epstein's "glorious homes he likes to share with his friends." The release adds to public understanding of Epstein's network of powerful connections prior to his conviction.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC