The UK government is facing increasing pressure to release details regarding the vetting of Peter Mandelson before his appointment as US ambassador in December 2024. The calls for transparency follow the release of documents detailing his ties to Jeffrey Epstein.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed he was aware of Mandelson’s long-term relationship with Epstein before making the appointment. Starmer noted that Mandelson had previously lied about how often the two were in contact.

Mandelson's background check involved a two-stage vetting process. During the first stage, officials raised concerns about his interactions with Epstein that occurred after Epstein’s criminal conviction. While the results of the second, more secretive stage remain private, his final appointment suggests he received the necessary clearance.