DEVELOPING: Starmer Faces Intense Scrutiny Over Mandelson's Epstein Ties

Breaking News: Starmer Faces Pressure Over Mandelson's Epstein Ties Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is under intense scrutiny over his close associate, Lord Peter Mandelson, who has been linked to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. US lawmakers have released documents revealing a letter in which Mandelson referred to Epstein as his "best pal". The revelations come just days after the Labour Party's annual conference. Mandelson allegedly sent supportive messages to Epstein while he was facing charges in 2008, according to reports. In an interview with Harry Cole Saves the West, Mandelson suggested further embarrassing exchanges would emerge. He claimed to have relied on assurances of Epstein's innocence, which he now regrets. The Conservatives and some Labour MPs are calling for Mandelson to be sacked as US ambassador. However, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has stood by the diplomat. The controversy is likely to put pressure on Starmer to distance himself from Mandelson. This is a developing story, with more details expected to emerge in the coming hours. *This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Based on reporting from Bbc.*