Expanded apology acknowledges victims and stresses lack of complicity Peter Mandelson issued a new statement to BBC Newsnight in which he expressed remorse for believing Epstein over his victims and said he was “never culpable or complicit” in the crimes [1][2]. He added that he learned the full truth after Epstein’s 2019 death and affirmed his regret for being among those who trusted the financier. The apology comes while he stays on leave from the House of Lords.

Previous defence hinged on claimed ignorance and sexual orientation In a BBC interview, Mandelson insisted he never saw any of Epstein’s alleged victims at the billionaire’s properties, describing the only visitors as “middle‑aged housekeepers” [2]. He argued that being gay kept him “separate” from Epstein’s sexual activities, a claim he repeated when refusing to apologize for the crimes themselves [2][1]. He maintained that he would apologize only if he had been complicit.

Emails published by Bloomberg show continued support after first conviction A cache of Mandelson’s emails revealed he sent supportive messages to Epstein after the 2008 conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor [1][2]. The correspondence included offers to raise Epstein’s Florida case with political contacts, intensifying scrutiny of his judgment. These messages were cited by Downing Street as evidence of a deeper relationship than previously disclosed.

Sacking as ambassador followed email revelations and public pressure Downing Street announced Mandelson’s removal from his post as UK ambassador to the United States in September, citing the newly surfaced emails as materially different from the information available at his appointment [2]. The dismissal preceded his broader apology and left him on parliamentary leave. Both outlets note that the fallout reflects heightened demand for accountability from victims and lawmakers.