The fallout from the Peter Mandelson appointment continues to escalate for UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, with two key Downing Street officials resigning within days of each other. On Sunday, Morgan McSweeney, Starmer’s chief of staff, resigned, followed on Monday by No 10’s head of communications, Tim Allan.
McSweeney took “full responsibility” for advising the Prime Minister to appoint Mandelson as the UK ambassador to the US. The resignations are being described as a “war of attrition” within Downing Street, with some suggesting further resignations are possible.
The crisis deepened on Monday afternoon when Anas Sarwar, the Scottish Labour leader, publicly called for Starmer to stand down, citing the damage to the party’s prospects in upcoming elections. Despite this, a spokesperson for Starmer stated he remains committed to leading the country.
The situation has prompted a flurry of responses from within the Labour party, with cabinet ministers offering public support for Starmer on social media. Darren Jones delivered a statement to the Commons regarding standards in public life, proposing the removal of “rogue peers” from the Lords and tighter vetting procedures – despite the fact that Mandelson’s relationship with Jeffrey Epstein was already public knowledge.
The controversy has also drawn attention to the broader political class, with accusations of hypocrisy and a focus on self-preservation rather than the concerns of victims of Jeffrey Epstein. Kemi Badenoch, a Tory leader, claimed credit for uncovering information about Mandelson’s ties to Epstein, despite the information being publicly available for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who resigned from Keir Starmer’s staff?
Morgan McSweeney, Keir Starmer’s chief of staff and Tim Allan, No 10’s head of communications, both resigned.
Why did Morgan McSweeney resign?
Morgan McSweeney resigned, taking full responsibility for advising the Prime Minister to appoint Peter Mandelson as the UK ambassador to the US.
Did anyone call for Keir Starmer to resign?
Anas Sarwar, the Scottish Labour leader, publicly called for Keir Starmer to stand down.
Given the ongoing turmoil, what impact will this have on the Labour party’s standing as they approach the May elections?
Worth a look