Peter Mandelson Enlists Top Legal Firepower Amid Police Investigation
Former Labour cabinet minister Peter Mandelson has retained a team of high-profile lawyers from three leading firms – Mishcon de Reya, BCL Solicitors, and Hollis Whiteman – as he cooperates with a Metropolitan Police investigation. The inquiry stems from the release of documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein, raising questions about potential misconduct in public office.
Arrest and Initial Response
Mandelson was arrested on Monday and questioned for nine hours before being released on bail. Mishcon de Reya swiftly issued a statement on his behalf, asserting that the arrest occurred despite a prior agreement for a voluntary interview next month. The firm refuted suggestions that Mandelson was planning to leave the country, calling such claims “baseless.” Source
The Legal Team
Mishcon de Reya
Mishcon de Reya, an international law firm with offices in multiple countries including London, Singapore, and Dubai, is representing Mandelson in the initial stages of the investigation. Source The firm, founded in 1937, employs over 650 lawyers and reported a revenue of £330 million in 2023/2024. Source
BCL Solicitors and Ian Burton
Mandelson has also engaged Ian Burton of BCL Solicitors, a firm known for representing controversial high-profile clients. Source Burton has previously represented figures such as Sir Philip Green and the estate of Mohammed Fayed. He is considered a leading expert in white-collar crime, with over 50 years of experience. Source
Hollis Whiteman and Adrian Darbyshire KC
Adrian Darbyshire KC, of Hollis Whiteman, is also advising Mandelson. Darbyshire successfully defended Boris Johnson in a 2019 High Court case concerning allegations of misconduct during the Brexit referendum. Source He specializes in high-risk white-collar crime and professional discipline.
Background of the Investigation
The police investigation was triggered by the emergence of emails in the Epstein files suggesting that Mandelson may have leaked sensitive government documents to the disgraced financier while serving as Gordon Brown’s business secretary. Source Mandelson’s lawyers have denied these allegations.
The Metropolitan Police launched the investigation after the release of the Epstein files. Source