The recent release of over three million US government documents on Jeffrey Epstein has cast renewed scrutiny on several prominent figures in Britain, including former Prince Andrew, his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, and former ambassador Peter Mandelson. The trove of files has raised questions about their ties to the late financier, who had access to both the royal family and government circles.
Prince Andrew Under Fire
Former Prince Andrew, now Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, has long denied wrongdoing in connection with Epstein. In a 2019 BBC interview, he claimed to have cut ties with Epstein in 2010 after the financier’s 2008 conviction for soliciting an underage girl. However, emails revealed last year suggested contact continued in 2011, prompting King Charles III to strip him of royal titles and begin eviction from Windsor Estate.
The newly released files include three undated photos showing Mountbatten-Windsor kneeling over a fully clothed person whose face is redacted. While the images provide no context, they have intensified public scrutiny. Previously, Mountbatten-Windsor faced allegations from Epstein accuser Virginia Giuffre, who claimed sexual abuse when she was 17. Mountbatten-Windsor has denied all allegations, though he reportedly settled a civil case with Giuffre in 2022. Emails also indicate Epstein invited Mountbatten-Windsor to meet a 26-year-old Russian woman in 2010, raising further questions. Thames Valley Police are investigating reports relating to the case.
Sarah Ferguson’s Ties to Epstein
Mountbatten-Windsor’s ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, known as Fergie, also appears in the documents. Emails suggest a close relationship, with Ferguson describing Epstein as her “supreme friend” and seeking his help with personal matters, including rent and fashion opportunities. Epstein reportedly sought Ferguson’s assistance in managing his public image. Following previous revelations, Ferguson lost charity patronages, and her foundation, Sarah’s Trust, announced it would close temporarily.
Peter Mandelson and Alleged Government Leaks
Peter Mandelson, former UK ambassador to Washington and business secretary, has been implicated for allegedly leaking sensitive government documents to Epstein and facilitating payments to his partner, Reinaldo Avila da Silva. Financial records suggest Epstein transferred funds to Mandelson and da Silva, while emails indicate Mandelson provided Epstein with information on UK tax policies, European Union bailout plans, and regulatory actions affecting banks.
Amid the revelations, Mandelson resigned from Labour and will step down from the House of Lords. London’s Metropolitan Police have confirmed they are investigating alleged misconduct in public office linked to the disclosures. Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown has provided information regarding the suspected leaks.
The documents underscore Epstein’s extensive network of influence, putting pressure on Britain’s political and royal establishments to provide transparency and accountability.
