Lord Peter Mandelson, the UK’s ambassador to the US, reportedly referred to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein as his “best pal” in a birthday message included in an alleged “birthday book” recently released by US lawmakers.
The note, apparently written for Epstein’s 50th birthday in 2003, describes him as an “intelligent, sharp-witted man” who “parachuted” into Mandelson’s life. The letter also mentions spending hours waiting for Epstein’s presence and concludes warmly: “Happy Birthday, Jeffrey. We love you!”
The documents, released by the House Oversight Committee, include Epstein’s personal address book and will. They were originally compiled by Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s British associate, three years before public allegations of sexual abuse emerged in 2006.
Mandelson’s spokesperson emphasized that he regrets ever meeting Epstein and that the connection has long been publicly known. Previous reports also highlighted Epstein’s close ties with Prince Andrew and other high-profile figures.
The release of the birthday book has reignited scrutiny of Epstein’s network and past associations of prominent individuals.