Mandelson Faces EU Inquiry Over Epstein Links and Public Office Conduct

Published: 27 February 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

Peter Mandelson is facing an inquiry by the European Union following claims about his Brussels trade role. The EU anti-fraud office, known as Olaf, has been asked to examine his activities after new documents emerged suggesting possible misconduct during his time as trade commissioner. These revelations reportedly link Mandelson to Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender, raising serious questions about the former British politician’s conduct in public office. Olaf’s involvement follows a formal request from the European Commission, which highlighted concerns regarding the sharing of sensitive government information during Mandelson’s tenure in Brussels.

The documents released by the US Department of Justice allegedly show that Mandelson shared details of high-level economic discussions with Epstein, including information surrounding a €500bn eurozone bailout in 2010. Although Mandelson served as EU trade commissioner between 2004 and 2008, his continued political influence in the UK after returning as business secretary has brought renewed scrutiny. Lawyers for Mandelson have strongly denied any wrongdoing, asserting that claims suggesting he was a flight risk are entirely baseless. He was briefly arrested on Monday over allegations of misconduct in public office but released on bail shortly afterward.

The controversy has reverberated across the British establishment, prompting Defence Secretary John Healey to order a comprehensive review of military records spanning more than twenty years. Officials aim to determine whether Epstein or his associates used RAF airfields to land private jets, potentially facilitating criminal activities. A Ministry of Defence spokesperson confirmed that the review will ensure all relevant information about Epstein’s flights and associated crimes is provided to authorities. Concerns over potential state involvement in facilitating Epstein’s movements have intensified, particularly in light of previous warnings from former Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

Brown reportedly expressed alarm over private flights Epstein undertook in the early 2000s, including a landing at a Norfolk airbase before visiting Sandringham with Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. Allegations suggest confidential information may have been passed to Epstein by Mandelson while he was a UK trade envoy. The former prince has denied any misconduct, but scrutiny continues as investigators assess his activities in both European and British contexts. The European Commission has stated it will evaluate all indications of potential breaches of the code of conduct and take action as necessary.

A spokesperson for the European Commission confirmed that Olaf had been asked to review Mandelson’s actions, without specifying whether a full investigation would ensue. According to reports, the European inquiry is expected to be comprehensive, examining a wide range of possible violations rather than focusing on a single event. Mandelson’s legal team has not immediately responded to media requests for comment, leaving the public to await further updates as the investigation develops.

The Metropolitan Police have also faced criticism after erroneously naming two parliamentary speakers in connection with Mandelson’s arrest. Michael Forsyth, the Lord Speaker, was wrongly reported to have alerted police that Mandelson planned to flee to the British Virgin Islands. The House of Commons Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, clarified that it was actually he who had informed authorities while on holiday in the region. The police issued formal apologies to both speakers, acknowledging the inadvertent disclosure of sensitive information.

Amid these developments, the intelligence and security committee confirmed that Prime Minister Keir Starmer will not have a veto over the release of documents regarding Mandelson’s appointment as UK ambassador, even if the content proves politically damaging. Mandelson was removed from the ambassadorial post in September following revelations of continued contact with Epstein after his conviction. Parliament had voted earlier this month for the committee to oversee publication of the files, with the first tranche expected to be released in early March.

The government has agreed a framework with Scotland Yard to manage the release of documents, ensuring that ongoing police investigations are not jeopardised. Committee chair Lord Beamish emphasised that decisions regarding publication will rest solely with the intelligence and security committee, safeguarding national security and diplomatic relations while preventing political interference. Officials have confirmed that documents related to Mandelson’s vetting and appointment will be prioritised, reflecting the seriousness of the allegations and the committee’s oversight responsibilities.

A government spokesperson indicated that progress is being made on publishing the first tranche of documents, with close collaboration between the Cabinet Office and the committee. The administration committed to full engagement to ensure the process is both timely and transparent, demonstrating a willingness to maintain accountability in sensitive matters. The publication is expected to shed light on a broader network of interactions and provide further clarity on the nature of Mandelson’s connections with Epstein during his public service.

Legal experts have highlighted that while the inquiries span European and British jurisdictions, the investigations remain separate, reflecting differing legal frameworks and procedural requirements. The EU’s Olaf agency will assess any breaches under European codes of conduct, while UK authorities continue to evaluate alleged misconduct in public office. The dual inquiries underscore the complexity of allegations involving high-profile political figures, requiring meticulous examination of historical records and correspondence to establish the full scope of involvement.

Observers note that the unfolding situation illustrates growing concerns over transparency and accountability among senior officials with access to sensitive economic and diplomatic information. The case also raises broader questions regarding the adequacy of vetting procedures for high-ranking public servants, particularly when international connections and potential conflicts of interest are present. Legal analysts suggest that the outcome of these investigations could set significant precedents for future oversight of politicians and diplomats alike.

Mandelson’s supporters argue that the allegations are politically motivated, asserting that his longstanding public service record demonstrates commitment to ethical standards. Critics, however, emphasise the need for rigorous investigation, given the severity of the claims and the potential implications for national security and international relations. The inquiries also intersect with broader scrutiny of Epstein’s network and its access to prominent figures, underscoring persistent concerns over accountability among elites.

The European and British inquiries are likely to continue for several months, with further releases of documents anticipated to provide insight into Mandelson’s interactions and decisions. Parliamentary committees, legal authorities, and investigative bodies are coordinating to ensure thorough examination, balancing transparency with the protection of sensitive information. As the story develops, attention remains on both the outcomes of the inquiries and the wider implications for governance and political oversight.

Ultimately, the case highlights the intersection of international politics, diplomacy, and legal accountability, reflecting enduring tensions between public interest and personal conduct. Mandelson’s position as a former EU trade commissioner and UK political leader ensures that the investigations carry substantial public attention. The outcomes will influence discussions on ethics, governance, and the responsibilities of individuals entrusted with access to confidential information, both in the United Kingdom and across the European Union.

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