UK Ambassador Appointment Sparks Resignation of Prime Minister’s Chief Aide
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, stepped down on Sunday, stating he accepted responsibility for advising the prime minister to appoint Peter Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to the United States despite concerns over his past association with Jeffrey Epstein.
Epstein Revelations Trigger Major Political Fallout
The resignation follows the release of new documents detailing Mandelson’s connections to the convicted sex offender. The controversy has escalated into what many observers describe as the most serious challenge to Starmer’s leadership since he took office 18 months ago, particularly regarding the decision to send Mandelson to Washington in 2024
Key Strategist’s Departure Marks Significant Setback
McSweeney, aged 48, was widely considered one of the architects of Starmer’s political success and played a crucial role in Labour’s rise to power. His exit represents another blow to the government less than two years after the party secured a large parliamentary majority.
Leadership Under Pressure Amid Declining Popularity
Recent opinion polls indicate declining public support for Starmer following several controversial policy reversals. Critics within Labour have begun questioning his judgment and future as leader, and it remains unclear whether McSweeney’s resignation will be enough to ease internal dissent.
Police Investigation Linked to Newly Released Files
Documents released in the United States on January 30 prompted a police investigation into potential misconduct allegations. The inquiry focuses on claims that Mandelson may have shared sensitive financial information with Epstein during his time as a government minister during the global financial crisis.
McSweeney Accepts Responsibility for Appointment Advice
In his resignation statement, McSweeney admitted that recommending Mandelson for the ambassadorial role was a mistake that had harmed public trust and the reputation of the Labour Party. He emphasised that he alone accepted responsibility for the advice given to the prime minister.
Opposition Figures Intensify Criticism
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said the resignation was long overdue and argued that Starmer must also take accountability for his decisions. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage suggested the controversy could signal the beginning of the end for Starmer’s leadership.
Mixed Reactions Within Labour Party
While some Labour MPs had blamed McSweeney for the appointment controversy, others believe the prime minister himself must face consequences. One unnamed lawmaker described the resignation as a temporary reprieve rather than a lasting solution to the crisis.
Potential Diplomatic Fallout Looms
The government has agreed to release previously confidential communications related to Mandelson’s appointment, which could include sensitive discussions about the UK’s approach to relations with Donald Trump. Analysts warn this may create further political challenges for Starmer.
Interim Leadership Changes Announced
McSweeney had served as chief of staff since October 2024 after replacing Sue Gray. Following his departure, Starmer appointed deputy chiefs of staff Jill Cuthbertson and Vidhya Alakeson as joint acting chiefs while the government navigates the ongoing political turmoil.
