MPs were informed on Monday that the UK government is preparing to release key documents regarding Peter Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador to the United States.
Scheduled for “early March,” the release follows a parliamentary motion demanding the disclosure of files concerning Mandelson’s vetting for the role, and occurs after his arrest on allegations of misconduct in public office.
Darren Jones, chief secretary to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, informed the House of Commons: “The government anticipates publishing the first batch of documents very soon, in early March.”
He added, “However, I must advise the House that some documents within this first batch remain part of an ongoing investigation.”
Jones noted that “a small fraction of this material involves national security or international relations matters” and would be managed through the Intelligence and Security Committee, respecting parliamentary wishes.
As previously reported, a Metropolitan Police spokesperson confirmed Monday that police arrested a 72-year-old man at a Camden residence and transported him to a London police station for interrogation.
The arrest comes after disclosures about Mandelson’s connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, occurring days after Prince Andrew was also taken into custody.
The probe centers on accusations that Mandelson disclosed confidential government data to Epstein during his tenure as business secretary.
Authorities launched a criminal investigation after the government forwarded correspondence between the former ambassador and the disgraced financier.
Emails disclosed by the U.S. Department of Justice also seemed to reveal Mandelson’s communications with Epstein during the 2008 financial crisis.
Mandelson has rejected any misconduct, stating he cannot remember the alleged disclosures, and has expressed remorse to Epstein’s victims for continuing contact after Epstein’s conviction.
On February 4, Starmer addressed the Commons, saying: “I’m as angry as anyone about Mandelson’s actions. The disclosures… are utterly shocking and appalling. He has betrayed our country. He has lied repeatedly. He is responsible for a litany of deceit.”
Starmer subsequently stated that had he been aware then of what he knows now, Mandelson “would never have been anywhere near government.”
Mandelson, a key figure in New Labour, was named U.S. ambassador before his removal in September 2025 as examination of his Epstein ties escalated.
He subsequently quit the Labour Party and relinquished his seat in the House of Lords.
During his tenure as U.S. ambassador, Mandelson achieved an early success by securing Britain’s position as the first nation to negotiate a deal with the U.S. to reduce some of President Donald Trump’s tariffs, though he was dismissed months later.
Calls for resignations over Mandelson’s appointment intensified, according to reports.