Documents released from Jeffrey Epstein's estate have revealed disturbing details about the convicted paedophile's connections to British royalty and politicians. A legal summons to hand over materials to the US House Oversight Committee has made public a 2003 "birthday book" compiled by Ghislaine Maxwell for the sex trafficker.
An unnamed woman described as Epstein's former assistant wrote extensively about her experiences through their association. She claimed to have met the Duke of York and gained access to "the private quarters of Buckingham Palace", where she allegedly "sat on the Queen of England's throne".
The assistant also described meeting high-profile figures including Naomi Campbell, Kevin Spacey, Michael Jackson and US presidents Bill Clinton and Donald Trump. Her account detailed extensive international travel and exclusive experiences facilitated through her connection to Epstein.
Political connections revealed
The 238-page book titled "The First Fifty Years" contains a birthday message from Lord Peter Mandelson, who served as British ambassador to the US. In the message, Mandelson described Epstein as "my best pal" and wrote about his "glorious homes he likes to share with his friends".
Mandelson's contribution included photographs with two unidentified women whose faces were blocked out in the released documents. His message referenced Epstein's unpredictable nature and their friendship spanning various locations worldwide.
Government response
Health Secretary Wes Streeting responded to the revelations on LBC, stating that "the ambassador has been clear that he regrets ever having been introduced to Epstein". Streeting added: "Who would want to be associated with Epstein given what we know now about the horrific crimes that he perpetrated?"
He cautioned against guilt by association, saying: "I don't think we should tar everyone as kind of guilty by association." Lord Mandelson has previously expressed regret about meeting Epstein, adding: "I regret even more the hurt he caused to many young women."
Background context
The Duke of York has consistently denied any wrongdoing in relation to his connection with Epstein. The documents were released alongside Epstein's will, personal address book and a 2007 non-prosecutorial agreement.
Epstein was found dead in his Manhattan federal jail cell in August 2019 while awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges. His death was officially ruled a suicide.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
