British ex-minister leaves party over Epstein reports

Former British minister Peter Mandelson announced his departure from the Labour Party following new reports about his financial ties to the late Jeffrey Epstein.

Documents released by the US Department of Justice allegedly show that accounts linked to Mandelson received $75,000. Although the former minister claims the allegations are untrue, he has announced that they will be investigated. He added that he does not want to cause further embarrassment to the party.

Mandelson was dismissed from his post as British ambassador to the US a year ago when other evidence of his contact with Epstein came to light, including a letter in which he described him as "his best friend."

In the past, he had to resign from the government twice due to scandals, although he was later cleared. According to Education Minister Olivia Bailey, Mandelson's decision is the right one.

(reuters, pir)