LONDON: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the UK ambassador to Washington, Peter Mandelson, following the release of a 2003 letter in which Mandelson described his friendship with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein as 'intelligent and sharp-witted.' The letter's publication comes ahead of US President Donald Trump's state visit to Britain.

Despite the controversy, Starmer stated that due process was followed in Mandelson's appointment and expressed confidence in the ambassador.

Mandelson has expressed deep regret for his association with Epstein, acknowledging the harm caused by Epstein’s actions.