Key Facts
- ✓ Lord Mandelson was sacked as the UK's US ambassador.
- ✓ Mandelson stated Epstein kept him 'separate' from his sexual side.
- ✓ He claimed this was because he is gay.
- ✓ Mandelson said he never saw any young women at Epstein's properties.
Quick Summary
Lord Mandelson has addressed the controversy surrounding his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein in his first interview since being removed from his position as the UK's US ambassador. He stated that Epstein kept him 'separate' from his sexual side because he is gay.
Mandelson denied ever seeing any young women at Epstein's properties. His comments aim to clarify his association with the convicted sex offender and explain why he was not involved in the criminal activities that took place at Epstein's residences.
Mandelson Breaks Silence on Epstein Ties
Lord Mandelson has spoken publicly for the first time since his dismissal as the UK's ambassador to the United States. In an interview with the BBC, he addressed the scrutiny regarding his past friendship with Jeffrey Epstein.
The former government minister stated that he never witnessed any inappropriate behavior at Epstein's homes. Mandelson emphasized that his relationship with Epstein was distinct from the financier's criminal activities.
"Epstein kept me 'separate' from his sexual side because I'm gay."
— Lord Mandelson
Claims of Separation
Mandelson explained that Epstein kept him 'separate' from his sexual side. He attributed this separation to his own sexual orientation, stating that Epstein was aware of his homosexuality.
According to Mandelson, this distinction meant he was not exposed to the sexual aspects of Epstein's life. He maintained that his visits to Epstein's properties were free of the illicit conduct that Epstein was later convicted for.
Denial of Witnessing Young Women
During the interview, Mandelson was asked specifically about the presence of young women at Epstein's properties. He categorically denied seeing any such individuals during his time there.
This denial forms a central part of his defense regarding his association with Epstein. Mandelson seeks to distance himself from the sex trafficking ring that operated within Epstein's network.
Political Fallout
The interview follows Mandelson's removal from his diplomatic post in Washington. The decision to sack him came amidst growing pressure over his ties to Epstein.
Mandelson's comments represent an attempt to manage the ongoing political fallout. By clarifying the nature of his relationship with Epstein, he addresses the questions that led to his dismissal.