The appointment of Peter Mandelson as the UK's ambassador to Washington has led to a series of scandals and resignations, after revelations about the extent of his relationship with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein came to light. Lord Mandelson was sacked as ambassador in 2025, after information was published by the US government as part of the Epstein files. Despite admitting to being aware of this relationship, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has insisted Mandelson "lied repeatedly" to No 10 about the extent of his relationship with Epstein, before and during his tenure as ambassador. The PM claimed that if he had known then what he later found out, Mandelson "would never have been anywhere near government". Mandelson has since apologised for his relationship with Epstein, claiming he did not witness wrongdoing in his interactions with the late financier. In relation to his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office, the former ambassador has claimed not to have acted in any way criminally and said he was not motivated by financial gain. He insists his priority is to cooperate with police and clear his name. ITV News explores the timeline of events surrounding Mandelson's controversial appointment.