Keir Starmer plans to release critical documents regarding Peter Mandelson’s appointment as the UK’s ambassador to Washington, following accusations from the Prime Minister of failing the nation. The move comes as Scotland Yard initiates a criminal investigation into the long-standing Labour figure amid escalating concerns over the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. Lord Mandelson, who resigned from the House of Lords recently, faces allegations of sharing confidential information with Epstein during the 2008 financial crisis. The government has assured its cooperation with the police in the ongoing investigation.

With the controversy deepening, the Conservative Party is pushing for transparency regarding Mandelson’s 2025 appointment as the UK ambassador to the US under Starmer’s administration. Mandelson was dismissed from the role a few months later due to his connections with Epstein.

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch is set to use an uncommon “humble address” motion in the House of Commons to compel the disclosure of various documents, including the Cabinet Office’s vetting process details submitted to No10 at the time, materials shared with the Foreign Office’s screening procedure, and communications between senior government officials and Lord Mandelson prior to his ambassadorial appointment.

Despite initial reluctance, Starmer’s government has now agreed to disclose some information in response to the Tories’ motion, with the exception of documents that could jeopardize UK national security or international relations.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting acknowledged on Wednesday the need to learn lessons from the process that led to Mandelson’s ambassadorial appointment. Streeting emphasized the importance of transparency by allowing document releases and expressed a sense of disappointment regarding Mandelson’s actions.

In a statement, Metropolitan Police Commander Ella Marriott confirmed the launch of an investigation into a 72-year-old former Government Minister for allegations of misconduct in public office, following reports and a referral from the UK Government. The government has pledged full cooperation with the police in the investigation.

Publicly silent since the start of the police inquiry, Lord Mandelson reportedly maintains his innocence, denying any criminal wrongdoing or personal gain. He has stated his willingness to collaborate with the police and asserts that his interactions with Epstein were motivated by national interests rather than personal benefit.