DEVELOPING: No 10 Failed to Question Mandelson on Epstein Ties Before Key Appointment

Breaking News: No 10 Questioned Mandelson on Epstein Ties Before Key Appointment Sir Keir Starmer's office has confirmed that the Labour leader explicitly asked Lord Peter Mandelson about his links to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein before appointing him as the UK's ambassador to the US. This revelation comes after Mandelson was sacked from the role on Thursday following a cache of emails revealing his friendship with Epstein. The prime minister is believed to have asked Mandelson three questions relating to his friendship with Epstein while he was being vetted for the influential position. The questioning took place before Mandelson's appointment, which has raised questions about what Sir Keir knew at the time. Mandelson's friendship with Epstein was known at the time of his appointment, but No 10 claimed new information only came to light this week, prompting his sacking. However, it is unclear how much was known by Sir Keir and his team before Mandelson took up the role. The Labour leader is under pressure over the decision to appoint Mandelson, with critics questioning whether he properly vetted him for the position. The situation is likely to continue to dominate headlines in the coming days as more information comes to light. This is a developing story, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available. *This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Based on reporting from Bbc.*