Leon Black, the American financier and former billionaire, walked free from questioning in London today after being interviewed by British authorities in connection with the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. The interview, conducted under caution at a central London police station, lasted for approximately four hours. Black’s legal team confirmed that he answered all questions put to him and was released without charge. The development marks a significant moment in the ongoing international probe into Epstein’s network of influence and alleged financial irregularities.
Black, the co-founder of Apollo Global Management, has been a figure of interest for investigators in both the United States and the United Kingdom. His ties to Epstein, which included financial transactions and social engagements, have been scrutinised by law enforcement agencies. British officials have not disclosed the specific nature of the questions posed, but sources indicate the inquiry focused on offshore accounts and potential money laundering activities.
Coinciding with Black’s release, a cross-party group of British law lords issued a formal demand for greater transparency in offshore financial structures. In a statement published this morning, the group called for the UK government to introduce legislation requiring the disclosure of beneficial ownership for all trusts and companies registered in British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies. The law lords argued that the current regulatory framework allows individuals to conceal assets and avoid scrutiny, undermining efforts to combat financial crime.
The demand carries particular weight given the UK’s role as a global financial hub. The British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, and Jersey are among the jurisdictions that have faced criticism for their opacity. The law lords’ statement cited the Epstein case as a “catalyst” for reform, noting that offshore entities were allegedly used to facilitate illicit transactions and to shield the identities of those involved.
Black’s legal representatives declined to comment on the broader implications of the law lords’ demand. However, in a brief statement outside the police station, Black said: “I have cooperated fully with the authorities. The allegations against me are baseless, and I look forward to putting this matter behind me.”
The Epstein probe has prompted a series of high-profile interviews in recent months. Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, was interviewed by US investigators in 2020 and has faced civil litigation in New York. British police have also interviewed a number of Epstein’s former associates, though no charges have been brought in the UK to date.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing. A spokesperson said: “A man in his 60s attended a central London police station by appointment and was interviewed under caution. He has been released pending further inquiries.”
The law lords’ intervention is likely to intensify pressure on the government to act. The Treasury has signalled its willingness to consider reforms, but has stopped short of endorsing the full transparency regime proposed. A Treasury spokesperson said: “We are committed to tackling illicit finance and will continue to work with international partners to ensure that our offshore territories meet the highest standards of transparency.”
Critics argue that voluntary measures have proven insufficient. Transparency International UK welcomed the law lords’ statement, calling it a “critical step” towards closing loopholes that enable corruption. The organisation’s director said: “The Epstein case has shown how easily wealth can be hidden. The UK must lead by example.”
For now, Leon Black’s release offers a temporary reprieve for the financier, but the broader political momentum for offshore transparency appears to be gathering pace. The law lords have scheduled a debate on the issue for next month, with a vote on proposed legislation expected before the summer recess.
