Britain’s ambassador to the United States Peter Mandelson, described convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein as his “best pal” in a message included in Epstein’s 50th birthday book, according to documents released by US lawmakers.The note, said to have been written by Mandelson, appears in a collection organised in 2003 by Epstein’s associate Ghislaine Maxwell. It was published Monday by the US house of representatives committee on oversight and reform.
‘Interesting’ friends
Several pages of the book feature photos of Mandelson, then a Labour MP, alongside a lengthy note. The message says, “Once upon a time, an intelligent, sharp-witted man they call ‘mysterious’ parachuted into my life.”“You would spend many hours just waiting for him to turn up. And often, no sooner were you getting used to having him around, you would suddenly be alone…. again. Leaving you with some ‘interesting’ friends to entertain instead….,” the note continues, “Or just some dogs to keep you company (he wasn’t always so keen on them). But then he would parachute back in… Very occasionally, taking you by surprise in some far off places. Or in one of his glorious homes he likes to share with his friends (yum yum).” ““But, wherever he is in the world, he remains my best pal! Happy birthday, Jeffrey we love you!!” it concludes, as quoted by Poitico.The existence of Mandelson’s contribution was first reported by The Wall Street Journal in July.
UK government backs Mandelson
Mandelson has previously sought to distance himself from Epstein. A spokesperson told the BBC on Monday, “Lord Mandelson has long been clear that he very much regrets ever having been introduced to Epstein.”Health secretary Wes Streeting rejected claims that the note could undermine Mandelson’s ambassadorial role. Speaking to LBC, he said, “The ambassador has been clear that he regrets ever having been introduced to Epstein. And who can blame him? Who would want to be associated with Epstein given what we know now about the horrific crimes that he perpetrated.”
Trump also under scrutiny
US President Donald Trump also faced renewed scrutiny after the book also featured his note to Epstein.The letter, first reported by The Wall Street Journal in July, appears on the outline of a nude woman. It contains a brief exchange between “Donald” and “Jeffrey,” ending with, “A pal is a wonderful thing. Happy Birthday — and may every day be another wonderful secret.” Trump’s name and signature are printed on the page, though the White House insists he neither wrote nor signed the message.
