Angela Rayner says she warned Starmer not to appoint Lord Mandelson as ambassador to the US, citing concerns over his links with Jeffrey Epstein following Epstein’s conviction for abuse. Detectives have searched properties linked to Mandelson as part of an investigation.

The PM apologised for accepting Lord Mandelson’s assurances about past links to a disgraced financier before backing him for a top diplomatic post. Labour figures branded him gullible and weak and urged a rethink, deepening unrest over the appointment.

The PM faces intense pressure after admitting he and his chief of staff were warned about Lord Mandelson’s links to Jeffrey Epstein before appointing him ambassador to Washington. Opponents question his judgment and demand full disclosure of advice behind the decision.

Lord Mandelson is under criminal investigation over claims he leaked market-sensitive government information to Jeffrey Epstein while in office. He will leave the Lords. Downing Street backed a full review, and Gordon Brown called the alleged conduct “unpatriotic”.