Starmer toughens stance: Mandelson should leave the House of Lords

The latest documents released by the US Department of Justice have reopened questions about the conduct of former British ambassador to the US Peter Mandelson, who has been linked to financier Jeffrey Epstein.

According to the leaked materials, Mandelson allegedly accepted tens of thousands of dollars in financial gifts from Epstein and forwarded him a confidential government document concerning Gordon Brown's economic policy. Mandelson claims that he does not remember any payments and describes the allegations as false.

In response to the new findings, he left the Labour Party to, in his own words, avoid further embarrassment. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Mandelson should not remain a member of the House of Lords, although his formal dismissal would require a change in the law.

British police have confirmed that they are investigating several allegations that he violated the rules of public office. The case also brought to mind Mandelson's controversial political past, marked by several resignations and scandals.

(reuters)