Mandelson sacked as US ambassador

Lord Mandelson sacked as US ambassador to the UK, Foreign Office minister Stephen Doughty has confirmed. It follows a string of allegations regarding his links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Here’s the statement in full, issued by the British Embassy in Washington:

“In light of the additional information in emails written by Peter Mandelson, the Prime Minister has asked the Foreign Secretary to withdraw him as Ambassador.

“The emails show that the depth and extent of Peter Mandelson’s relationship with Jeffrey Epstein is materially different from that known at the time of his appointment.

“In particular Peter Mandelson’s suggestion that Jeffrey Epstein’s first conviction was wrongful and should be challenged is new information. In light of that, and mindful of the victims of Epstein’s crimes he has been withdrawn as Ambassador with immediate effect.”