John Healey, the UK Defence Secretary, has initiated a comprehensive review of military archives following claims that Jeffrey Epstein may have exploited Royal Air Force (RAF) facilities to transport women and girls into the United Kingdom.
Healey has instructed officials at the Ministry of Defence to examine records dating back over two decades, including flight logs and passenger manifests. Any material relevant to criminal investigations will be forwarded to police authorities.
The investigation will focus on whether military transport infrastructure, including RAF airbases, was used in connection with suspected trafficking activities. Officials will assess historical flight documentation, military passenger transfer records, aircraft movement schedules, and diplomatic and commercial transport authorisations.
Government sources emphasised that this review is precautionary and does not imply confirmed wrongdoing. This action follows a letter from former Prime Minister Gordon Brown, who requested that six police forces investigate potential links between Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the use of taxpayer-funded aircraft, and access to military airbases during his tenure as a trade envoy.
Mountbatten-Windsor and Peter Mandelson were both arrested and released on bail earlier this month over allegations related to misconduct in public office in connection with Epstein. Both individuals have denied any wrongdoing.
Authorities are also examining whether state transport resources were improperly associated with private travel arrangements. The Metropolitan Police Service is continuing its investigation into these allegations, though no formal charges have been announced.
The UK government stated that the review aims to ensure that military transport assets are not misused, that safeguards against trafficking are maintained, and that historical records are properly audited. Officials stressed that defence operations continue to prioritise national security.
This inquiry is part of a broader examination of historical associations involving Epstein and public figures. Investigators have yet to confirm any systematic use of RAF infrastructure in trafficking activities.
An MoD spokesperson said: “The Defence Secretary has ordered a review of all records that the department may hold relating to Epstein flights landing at RAF bases to ensure that any information which relates to Epstein’s crimes is uncovered and provided to the relevant authorities.
The MoD will support any civilian police investigations.
“Our thoughts are with all the victims of Epstein’s vile crimes.”
