Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, apologized Thursday to victims of Jeffrey Epstein for appointing Peter Mandelson as Britain's ambassador to Washington, a decision he now regrets given Mandelson's ties to the disgraced financier. The apology followed the surfacing of newly released documents that revealed a closer relationship between Mandelson and Epstein than previously disclosed, according to Euronews.
Starmer stated that Mandelson had "portrayed Epstein as someone he barely knew," and admitted, "I am sorry for having believed Mandelson," Euronews reported. The Prime Minister's decision to appoint Mandelson has drawn intense criticism and calls for his resignation, with some within his own party questioning his leadership, according to BBC World.
The controversy stems from emails that surfaced showing a continued friendship between Mandelson and Epstein after Epstein's 2008 conviction. British police are now investigating Mandelson for potential misconduct in public office, according to multiple news sources. Starmer dismissed Mandelson following the emergence of the emails.
Despite the political turmoil, other news emerged, including a study published in Science that suggests make-believe isn’t just for humans. Researchers at the University of St Andrews University and Johns Hopkins University found that a male bonobo named Kanzi grasped the concept of make-believe, favoring a cup that scientists had pretended to fill with juice, Nature News reported. Amalia Bastos, a comparative psychologist at the University of St Andrews University, stated that the study adds to evidence that some animals can conceive of objects, events, and individuals that aren’t in the here and now.
In entertainment news, Jeremy Strong is set to star in a series adaptation of Jonathan Franzen's novel "Crossroads" for Netflix, Variety reported. The package hails from Media Res, with Strong executive producing in addition to starring. Amy Herzog is also involved in the project.
While the apology from Starmer has drawn criticism, at least one Epstein survivor has commended him for admitting his mistake, according to BBC World. The investigation into Mandelson's conduct remains ongoing.
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