Epstein survivor urges Starmer to meet victims after latest Mandelson files released | Politics News

A survivor of Jeffrey Epstein has said the latest release of documents relating to Peter Mandelson raises fresh questions that should be examined through a UK public inquiry.

She has also challenged Sir Keir Starmer to meet victims and hear their concerns.

Lisa Phillips, who was 21 when she met Jeffrey Epstein, said the publication of the latest tranche of documents left her questioning why survivors had not been given a greater voice.

Speaking exclusively to Sky News she said: “In light of the recent files concerning Peter Mandelson, and despite the many warnings and concerns raised about his appointment, I find it difficult to accept statements expressing sympathy for survivors when those survivors have never been given the opportunity to be heard.”

Ms Phillips said she had repeatedly sought a meeting with the prime minister to discuss the need for a public inquiry. She first emailed Sir Keir’s constituency office on 27 April and last week contacted Downing Street directly.

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Sky News understands because Lisa Phillips is not a constituent, only the second letter has reached the Prime Minister, and he is planning to respond in due course.

“I welcome the fact that the prime minister is meeting with other survivors of horrific abuse and exploitation, but I cannot understand why my requests – and the requests of others connected to this issue – have gone unanswered,” she said.

Referring to Mandelson’s past association with Epstein, she added: “Many of us believe there are serious questions that deserve to be addressed openly and transparently.”

Ms Phillips is calling on the government to establish an independent public inquiry under the Inquiries Act 2005, arguing that survivors are seeking accountability and answers about Epstein’s network and those connected to it.

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Her intervention comes after the release of a second tranche of documents relating to Mandelson’s appointment as UK ambassador to the United States.

The files have fuelled renewed scrutiny of the vetting process and reignited political debate about Mandelson’s links to Epstein.

Mandelson has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing and has said he regrets ever having known Epstein.

A government spokesperson said: “Our thoughts remain with the victims of Epstein, who have lived with unimaginable trauma, and it is crucial that accountability is delivered.

“The Epstein scandal has exposed a culture that didn’t value the lives of women. That is why government is deploying the full power of the state to halve violence against women and girls within a decade.”