PM warned of 'reputational risk' over Mandelson's Epstein links

Files released by the government show the Prime Minister was warned of a ‘reputational risk’ about Peter Mandelson’s links to Jeffrey Epstein before he was appointed US ambassador. Alex and Chris have been combing through the files since they were released this afternoon. Together with James they go through what we’ve learnt, and what it means for the Prime Minister. The BBC understands that Lord Mandelson's view is he answered questions about his relationship with Epstein in the vetting process accurately and that he believes he has not acted criminally, did not act for personal gain and is cooperating with the police. Plus, Alex and James speak to Simon Jack about the International Energy Agency’s decision to release more than 400 million barrels of oil in a bid to ease pressure on the market caused by the war in Iran. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscord Get in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480. New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Subscribe to our channel here: https://bbc.in/bbcnews For the latest news download the BBC News app or visit BBC.com/news #bbcnews 00:00 Introduction 00:30 Why were the Mandelson files published? 02:28 How do journalists go through the documents? 08:10 Darren Jones makes a statement in Parliament 11:51 Peter Mandelson's severance pay 21:10 What is the International Energy Agency and why have they released oil reserves? 24:50 What is the oil price now? 30:10 The UK political debate on fuel duty