The UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, has indicated that Prince Andrew should be ready to provide testimony to the US Congress regarding his past association with Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender.
Starmer’s remarks follow the recent release of additional Epstein-related documents by the US Department of Justice. These files include images depicting a man, identified as Prince Andrew, in a compromising position with an unidentified woman. The prince, who lost his royal titles last year, has repeatedly denied any involvement in Epstein’s criminal activities.
Emphasis on Victims in Epstein Case
Speaking to reporters upon arriving in Japan for the concluding leg of his East Asia tour, which includes China, Starmer stressed the importance of a victim-focused strategy in addressing the Epstein scandal. He stated that Epstein’s victims must remain the top priority for anyone holding relevant information.
When questioned about whether Prince Andrew should offer an apology and appear before the congressional hearing on Epstein, Starmer responded: ‘Firstly, I always approach this question with the victims of Epstein in mind. Epstein’s victims have to be the first priority. Whether there should be an apology, that’s a matter for Andrew. But, yes, in terms of testifying, I’ve always said anybody who’s got information should be prepared to share that information in whatever form they’re asked to do that because you can’t be victim-centred if you’re not prepared to do that.’
Mandelson’s Involvement and Response
The latest document release also highlights former US ambassador Lord Mandelson, who was dismissed after details of his ongoing interactions with Epstein emerged last September. Mandelson has issued a clear apology to Epstein’s victims.
The files reveal communications between Epstein and Reinaldo Avila da Silva, Lord Mandelson’s husband, concerning a payment to attend the British School of Osteopathy. One email mentions a £10,000 transfer from Epstein, which occurred while Mandelson served as business secretary.
Pressed on whether this payment met the expected standards for a peer, Starmer noted: ‘In relation to Peter Mandelson, obviously he was removed as ambassador in relation to the further information that came to light in September of last year and I’ve nothing more to say in relation to Peter Mandelson.’
Mandelson was called to testify before the US Congress in November as part of the continuing Epstein inquiry.
Ongoing Epstein Scandal
The controversy surrounding Prince Andrew’s ties to Epstein persists, intensified by the recent posthumous release of Virginia Giuffre’s memoir last month. Giuffre, a prominent Epstein accuser who passed away in April at age 41, alleged that Andrew had sexual relations with her at 17. The scandal continues to draw significant public and legal attention.
