The Business Secretary has stated that Peter Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador was considered “worth the risks” due to his “singular talents,” despite vetting process warnings concerning his links with Jeffrey Epstein. It was acknowledged that substantial information regarding Mandelson’s relationship with Epstein was known and factored into the decision. The Business Secretary praised Mandelson’s performance in the role, crediting him with navigating the most challenging period in US-UK relations since the Second World War. Additionally, it was clarified that the Cabinet Office conducted an independent inquiry into the appointment, presenting the information to the prime minister, and no further details beyond what was publicly known were provided. A separate political process also occurred in No 10 concerning other aspects of the appointment.
Source: www.theguardian.com