Starmer apologises to Epstein victims

Labour leader Keir Starmer issued a public apology to the survivors of Jeffrey Epstein, acknowledging that he had been misled by former minister Peter Mandelson’s false claims about the late financier’s dealings.
Starmer said the full extent of Mandelson’s connection with Epstein was unknown when he was appointed US ambassador, and he now accepts responsibility for the hurt caused by his earlier trust.

For anyone following UK politics, the apology highlights how past associations can resurface, reminding voters to scrutinise leaders’ past judgments and the importance of accountability in public office and ethical standards.

The incident may damage Starmer’s credibility ahead of the upcoming election, fuel criticism of Labour’s handling of misconduct cases, and pressure parties to vet relationships with controversial figures more rigorously.