Insights from Epstein Files on Mandelson’s Media Strategy
Peter Mandelson’s current media strategy amid a significant crisis appears to reflect advice he once gave to Jeffrey Epstein, as revealed in recently released emails by the US Department of Justice. In May 2011, Mandelson advised Epstein to "start setting down the irrefutable facts, build a narrative and fight back," emphasizing the importance of controlling the narrative during a crisis.
Despite Mandelson’s admitted lack of trust in London public relations professionals—stating, "truthfully no one springs to mind"—he has historically relied on his own skills to manage public perception. However, he recommended Epstein engage a libel lawyer known for an aggressive approach, a tactic that seems to echo in Mandelson’s current handling of his own situation.
Recent Arrest and Legal Representation
In the past 72 hours, Mandelson’s approach has mirrored his earlier advice, with headlines now focusing on what appears to be a police procedural error. On Monday afternoon, Mandelson was arrested at his Regent’s Park residence on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The 75-year-old peer denied any wrongdoing and asserted that financial gain was not a motivation. Notably, he did not attempt to conceal his identity when escorted to the police vehicle.
Media outlets had been informed two weeks prior that inquiries should be directed to Mishcon de Reya, a law firm specializing in defamation and known for its assertive reputation management. Mandelson was released in the early hours of Tuesday and again did not avoid media attention outside his home. Shortly after, he sent a WhatsApp message at 4am to at least one contact.
“Despite previous agreements between police and the legal team over a voluntary interview in early March, police arrested me because they claimed the lord speaker received information that I was about to flee to the British Virgin Islands and take up permanent residence abroad, leaving Reinaldo, my family home and Jock behind me,” Mandelson reportedly wrote with reference to his husband and dog. “I need hardly say, complete fiction. The police were told only today that they had to improvise an arrest. The question is who or what is behind this?”
The police apparently breached protocol by informing Mandelson’s lawyers about the source of the tip-off leading to the arrest.
A spokesperson for Mishcon de Reya issued a statement requesting the evidence justifying the arrest and emphasized Mandelson’s commitment to cooperating fully with the investigation. They also strongly denied claims that Mandelson posed a flight risk.
Clarification on Source of Tip-Off
It was later clarified that the tip-off did not come from the lord speaker, Michael Forsyth, but from Lindsay Hoyle, speaker of the Commons. Hoyle stated to MPs on Wednesday morning,
“I felt it was relevant I pass this on to the Metropolitan police in good faith, as is my duty and responsibility.”The police subsequently apologized to Hoyle for the breach of confidentiality.
Expert Opinions on Mandelson’s Crisis Management
A senior crisis communications expert noted that Mandelson’s engagement of Mishcon de Reya and his visible presence sent a message of dominance, consistent with his historical approach. The expert remarked,
“It is one of dominance and that’s always been the case with Peter. It is a signal to everyone, the prime minister included, that he is fighting his corner.”
James Lyons, former director of strategic communications for Keir Starmer until September last year, commented on the timing of the arrest and Mandelson’s subsequent communications. He observed that the arrest occurred late in the afternoon, limiting interrogation time due to requirements for rest and release within 24 hours.
“Texting friends details of your arrest at 4am is an unorthodox approach to crisis communications and not one I would recommend,” Lyons said. “But I can see the logic for Peter Mandelson to get the information out there on his own terms.
“There was already huge speculation about the police’s unprecedented decision to arrest him so publicly. It was only a matter of time before the claims that the peer was a flight risk – however reputable – became public. In these situations you should always tell it yourself and tell it first.”
Mark Borkowski, a crisis PR consultant, interpreted the hiring of Mishcon de Reya as an indication that Mandelson believed "attack was the best form of defence." He suggested that the police might now face pressure regarding what appears to be a "performative arrest."
Shift in Media Handling and Political Implications
Until the search of Mandelson’s homes in early February, he had personally managed media inquiries. The shift to legal representation carries risks, according to Lyons, and the ongoing developments pose challenges for Starmer’s government as it attempts to reset its agenda.
“It’s understandable why the peer wants to present himself as the victim of an injustice – and mentioning his desire to stay with his husband and dog was a nice human touch,” Lyons said. “But the danger is, given all that has come out, this approach only serves to anger the police while further alienating the public. I’m sure he will be at pains to present himself as cooperating fully going forward.”
