The Metropolitan Police has released Peter Mandelson from his bail conditions as it continues its investigation into alleged misconduct in public office
Peter Mandelson has been released from his bail conditions as police continue to investigate allegations against him.
The 72-year-old was arrested last month amid accusations he leaked sensitive information to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. Police swooped after Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle passed on information suggesting he was set to leave the country – which he denied.
On Friday the Met Police confirmed Lord Mandelson’s passport had been returned to him. A statement issued by his lawyers said: “In light of speculation following his arrest last week, we wish to clarify that the Metropolitan Police have removed all of Peter Mandelson’s bail conditions and returned his passport.
“Our client did not and does not pose a flight risk and will continue to cooperate with the police investigation. He will not be making any further comment at this stage.”
READ MORE: Vital escape route from vile abusers who exploit victims’ love for petsREAD MORE: Nigel Farage jets off to meet Donald Trump and ‘talk down Britain’ at swanky dinner
His arrest came after documents released by the US Department of Justice suggested Mandelson had shared sensitive insider information with Epstein. This included advance notice of an EU bailout following the 2008 market crash, it is alleged.
Police searched his London home, which is reportedly worth £7.6million, and the farmhouse he rents in Wiltshire.
Lord Mandelson, who quit the House of Lords after the DoJ released a tranche of new documents in January, was sacked as Keir Starmer’s ambassador to the US last year. This happened after new emails revealed the depth of the friendship with Epstein after the billionaire was convicted of procuring a child for sex in 2008.
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: “A 72-year-old man arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office has been released under investigation.
“The investigation remains ongoing.”