Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, refused calls to resign over his appointment of Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the United States. Mandelson had ties to Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender.
This decision sparked intense backlash after Epstein files revealed Mandelson’s connections.
Ambassador’s Ties Exposed
Starmer appointed Mandelson in 2024 despite known links to Epstein. Mandelson resigned last week after the files’ release. However the fallout intensified scrutiny on Starmer’s judgment.
Senior Aides Step Down
Morgan McSweeney, Starmer’s chief of staff, resigned on Sunday. He took responsibility for advising the appointment. Additionally Tim Allan, the director of communications, quit on Monday to allow a new team formation. These departures deepened the crisis in Starmer’s government.
Scottish Leader Demands Resignation
Anas Sarwar, the leader of the Scottish Labour Party, urged Starmer to step down. Sarwar stated that the position became untenable and a change served the country’s interest. Furthermore, other Labour figures echoed similar calls amid growing unrest.
Starmer Addresses Parliamentarians
Starmer addressed Labour MPs on Monday evening. He declared, “After having fought so hard for the chance to change our country, I’m not prepared to walk away from my mandate and my responsibility to my country, or to plunge us into chaos, as others have done.” He emphasized his focus on preventing the Reform Party from gaining power.
Ministers Offer Support
Several ministers backed Starmer. They described the government as united and committed to progress. Moreover the scandal marked the most serious challenge in Starmer’s 19-month tenure.
Starmer apologized for Mandelson’s deception about Epstein ties but vowed to continue leading.
