Peter Mandelson Referred to Jeffrey Epstein as ‘My Best Pal’ in 50th Birthday Letter

Published: 09 September 2025. The English Chronicle Desk

Newly released documents reveal that UK ambassador to the US, Peter Mandelson, described the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein as “my best pal” in a handwritten letter included in a birthday book for Epstein’s 50th birthday. The documents were made public by the US House Committee on Oversight and Reform, which is investigating Epstein’s activities and associated correspondence.

The letter, which is part of a compilation of messages assembled by Ghislaine Maxwell—who was convicted for her role in Epstein’s sex trafficking operation—contains photographs of Mandelson alongside Epstein and several of Epstein’s properties. In the note, Mandelson referred to Epstein as an “intelligent, sharp-witted man” and recounted the billionaire’s sporadic appearances in his life, concluding that, “wherever he is in the world, he remains my best pal.”

The package also includes a variety of images, including Mandelson on balconies, kayaking, and socializing with Epstein, along with depictions of tropical resorts and a luxury whiskey label. The release of these documents raises fresh scrutiny of Mandelson’s past connections with Epstein, which have been under question since a 2019 JP Morgan internal report indicated Epstein maintained “a particularly close relationship with Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, and Lord Peter Mandelson.”

Mandelson, one of the key architects of the New Labour movement in the UK, has previously expressed regret over his association with Epstein. A spokesperson for Mandelson reiterated to the BBC that he “very much regrets ever having been introduced to Epstein.”

The 50th birthday book also reportedly contained a sexually suggestive letter and drawing attributed to former US President Donald Trump, which the White House has denied is authentic. Other contributors to the book include Bill Clinton.

Epstein, who faced charges of sex trafficking of minors, died by suicide in August 2019 while awaiting trial. The book was handed over to the House oversight committee following a subpoena issued by Republican chair James Comer, alongside a request from Democratic members Sylvia Garcia and Ro Khanna urging Epstein’s estate to produce the materials. The full compilation was made public on Monday, offering new insight into the social connections and network surrounding Epstein prior to his death.