Lord Mandelson released on bail following arrest over allegations of misconduct in public office

Lord Mandelson has been released on bail by the Metropolitan Police following his arrest on Monday on suspicion of misconduct in public office.

In a statement, the Metropolitan Police said: "A 72-year-old man arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office has been released on bail pending further investigation.

"He was arrested at an address in Camden on Monday, February 23 and was taken to a London police station for interview.

"This follows search warrants at two addresses in the Wiltshire and Camden areas.

"We are not able to provide further information at this stage to prevent prejudicing the integrity of the investigation."

The former ambassador to the United States has been accused of passing sensitive information to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Footage shows Lord Mandelson returning to his home alone.

He was previously led out of his home by plain clothes police officers.

Two of his properties have been searched in connection with the allegations.

Lord Mandelson appeared in emails published in the Department of Justice's Epstein files dated 2009 and 2010, after Epstein became a convicted sex offender.

Sir Keir Starmer is set to chair Cabinet after his US ambassador's arrest.

Lord Mandelson has previously said his position was that he has not acted criminally and that he did not act for personal gain.

More to follow...