Maps
Magazine

WORLD NEWS

Keir Starmer Faces Political Turmoil as Key Aides Resign Over Mandelson Appointment
Keir Starmer’s communications chief Tim Allan resigns, following the departure of top aide Morgan McSweeney, amid fallout over Peter Mandelson’s US ambassador appointment and Epstein-related controversies.
ND
by News Desk
2026-02-09
Keir Starmer Faces Political Turmoil as Key Aides Resign Over Mandelson Appointment

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing mounting political pressure after two of his senior aides resigned over the controversial appointment of Peter Mandelson as UK ambassador to the United States.

On Monday, Tim Allan, Starmer’s communications chief, stepped down, saying he wanted to make way for a new team to support the Prime Minister. Allan’s departure comes a day after Starmer’s closest aide, Morgan McSweeney, resigned, taking responsibility for pushing Mandelson’s appointment.

The controversy centers on Mandelson’s ties to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as well as newly released U.S. Justice Department documents suggesting Mandelson may have leaked discussions on UK asset sales and tax changes to Epstein during the financial crisis. Mandelson has denied recalling any payments and has not publicly addressed allegations of document leaks. He is currently under police investigation for alleged misconduct in office.

Speaking to staff at Downing Street, Starmer urged unity, saying: “We must prove that politics can be a force for good. I believe it can. I believe it is. We go forward from here… with confidence as we continue changing the country.”

Despite these reassurances, the resignations have fueled criticism of Starmer’s leadership. Conservative opposition leader Kemi Badenoch accused Starmer of being indecisive and unable to govern, saying: “He’s like a plastic bag blowing in the wind… if he can’t do it, someone else in the Labour Party needs to do that, or they should have an election.”

Starmer had hoped the resignations would reset the narrative, allowing him to refocus on tackling the cost-of-living crisis and boosting the economy. However, market reactions have already shown concern, with British government borrowing costs rising amid fears over fiscal policy and political instability.

Labour lawmakers are also expressing frustration. One lawmaker, speaking anonymously, called McSweeney’s departure “politically tone deaf,” suggesting he should have resigned immediately after new allegations surfaced rather than waiting to see if he could survive politically.

Starmer defended his actions, accusing Mandelson of creating a “litany of deceit” regarding his Epstein connections and promising to release documents detailing how Mandelson was appointed. Starmer is scheduled to meet with Labour lawmakers later on Monday to address anger over the appointments and quell calls for his resignation.

The unfolding scandal highlights ongoing tensions within the Labour Party and raises questions about Starmer’s judgment and ability to lead, as scrutiny over political appointments intersects with high-profile international and ethical controversies.
Tagged:

LabourParty

KeirStarmer

PeterMandelson

Epstein
Share News: