• Peter Mandelson, former UK Ambassador, arrested over misconduct related to Epstein.
• Arrest follows a police investigation into alleged leaks of sensitive information.
• Mandelson has resigned from Labour Party after revelations about his ties to Epstein.
• Police have executed search warrants at two addresses connected to Mandelson.
• UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces criticism for appointing Mandelson despite prior controversies.

British police arrested Peter Mandelson, the former UK ambassador to the U.S., on February 23 on suspicion of misconduct in public office amid ongoing scrutiny of his connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The arrest was confirmed by the Metropolitan Police, who stated that a 72-year-old man had been apprehended in north London. The investigation stems from allegations that Mandelson shared sensitive government information with Epstein during his time as a member of the government, specifically between 2008 and 2010, according to Channel News Asia and Reuters.

The police investigation was triggered by the release of previously undisclosed emails between Mandelson and Epstein that revealed the extent of their relationship. It was reported that Mandelson passed on market-sensitive information, including government communications regarding the UK's economic strategy post-2008 crisis. This includes discussions about potentially profitable government asset sales and tax reforms for the banking sector, as noted by Independent and Los Angeles Times.

Mandelson has previously expressed regret over his past association with Epstein and resigned from his position in the Labour Party following the emergence of these new allegations. Prime Minister Keir Starmer's decision to appoint him as ambassador came under intense scrutiny, leading to significant political fallout, including criticisms about Starmer's judgment in light of Mandelson’s controversial past. The unfolding scandal has led to calls for more transparency regarding government documents linked to Mandelson's appointment, according to South China Morning Post and NPR.

Mandelson’s arrest occurred shortly after similar allegations led to the temporary custody of Prince Andrew, highlighting a broader investigation into figures associated with Epstein. Investigators executed search warrants at multiple properties linked to Mandelson in both London and Wiltshire. He has been taken to a police station for questioning, as the inquiry continues to develop, as noted by CBS News and Al Jazeera.