Leaked messages reveal what minister really said to Mandelson after he was sacked

WorldPolitics
4 Jun 2026 • 4:30 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Leaked messages reveal what minister really said to Mandelson after he was sacked

  • Leaked messages reveal government minister Darren Jones apologised to Peter Mandelson after he was sacked as US ambassador over his ties to Jeffrey Epstein.
  • The messages, which were not part of the official document release, show Mr Jones telling Lord Mandelson he was 'so sorry' and praising his work with Trump.
  • Mr Jones, Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister, also criticised Cabinet colleagues in the exchanges and sought career advice from Lord Mandelson.
  • He previously stated he could not hand over his exchanges as he failed to save them on his phone, and Lord Mandelson refused to disclose his phone.
  • The Conservative Party has accused the government of failing to fully comply with a humble address requesting all documents related to Lord Mandelson's appointment.

IN FULL