Peter Mandelson is set to lose the Freedom of Hartlepool accolade following his association with the infamous sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Council members unanimously decided to revoke the honor bestowed upon Lord Mandelson, who served as Hartlepool’s Member of Parliament from 1992 to 2004.
The decision comes after his dismissal as the US ambassador following leaked communications suggesting his support for Epstein after the latter’s conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor in 2008. The emails revealed his encouragement for Epstein to seek early release before his sentencing to 18 months in prison, along with expressing admiration for Epstein just before the start of his sentence.
Lord Mandelson, a key figure in the New Labour movement, had previously faced the stripping of honors from Manchester Metropolitan University, where he held the position of chancellor from 2016 to 2024.
The recent move by councillors in his former constituency is aimed at upholding the values and integrity of the borough, as the motion highlighted the inappropriate and ongoing relationship between Mandelson and Epstein, a convicted sex offender.
The rationale behind the decision emphasized that such a connection contradicts the essence of the honor and could tarnish the town’s reputation. Lord Mandelson, in response, expressed deep regret over his past association with Epstein and the distress caused to the victims.
For more news updates, follow our Mirror Politics account on Bluesky and stay connected with our Mirror Politics team led by Lizzy Buchan, Mikey Smith, Ashley Cowburn, Alexander Brown, Sophie Huskisson, and Dave Burke. Join our Politics WhatsApp group for exclusive news and subscribe to the Mirror’s Politics newsletter for the latest insights straight to your inbox. Watch our YouTube series ‘Party Games’ featuring MPs hosted by Sophie Huskisson.
The decision to remove the Freedom of Hartlepool honor from Lord Mandelson underscores the seriousness of the issue and the council’s commitment to upholding the borough’s values.