Mandelson Removed as UK Ambassador to US Amid Controversy

LONDON, Peter Mandelson has been removed as Britain’s Ambassador to Washington, less than two months into the role, after renewed controversy over his past connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The move follows intense political pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer, with opposition MPs and Labour backbenchers questioning the vetting process behind Mandelson’s appointment.

In a statement, Downing Street said Mandelson’s departure was “in the national interest,” while Foreign Secretary Angela Rayner confirmed a review of ambassadorial appointment procedures.

Political analysts warn the affair is damaging to Labour’s credibility at a delicate time. “It has undermined the government’s claims of integrity,” said Dr. Fiona Blake, professor of politics at King’s College London.

A replacement ambassador is expected to be named in the coming weeks.