University strips Mandelson honours in Epstein row

Lord Mandelson was the university's chancellor from 2016 until 2024

A university has stripped Peter Mandelson of all the honours it gave him, in the wake of fresh revelations about his friendship with late paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

The move by Manchester Metropolitan University comes after Mandelson was sacked as UK ambassador to the USA by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer on Thursday.

He was dismissed after it was revealed that he sent Epstein supportive messages while the disgraced American financier was facing sex offences charges.

A spokesman for the university - of which Mandelson was chancellor between 2016 and 2024 - said his honorary awards have been rescinded "following the revelations that have come to light in recent days".

He had been given honorary doctorate on his appointment as chancellor, and a commemorative medal at the end of his tenure.

Mandelson's links to Epstein had been discussed by the university's board of governors during his tenure, when a photograph of the two was made public.

"At that time we were reassured that there was no ongoing connection nor anything that would compromise Lord Mandelson's position," the university spokesman said.

He added: "Our thoughts are with the victims who were subjected to the appalling crimes committed by Jeffrey Epstein and to all those who continue to be affected today.

"The University no longer has any ties with Lord Mandelson."

Mandelson, one of the principle architects of New Labour, was appointed as ambassador to the USA in December 2024.

Epstein died of suicide in the Metropolitan Correctional Centre in New York City on 10 August 2019, while awaiting trial.