Morgan McSweeney resigned as chief of staff to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Sunday. He cited his role in advising the appointment of Peter Mandelson as UK ambassador to the United States in 2024.
This move came amid fresh revelations about Mandelson’s ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Resignation Details
McSweeney stated he took full responsibility for the decision. “The decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was wrong. He has damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself,” McSweeney said in his resignation letter.
Additionally he reflected carefully before stepping down. The 48-year-old had maintained a low profile but faced mounting pressure from Labour Party members.
Appointment Background
Starmer appointed Mandelson, a veteran Labour politician, to the key diplomatic post despite known Epstein connections. However Mandelson resigned from the ambassadorship in September 2025 after initial disclosures emerged. Critics argued the links posed risks to UK-US relations.
New Epstein Revelation
Documents released by the US Justice Department on January 30, 2026, exposed deeper ties. They suggested Mandelson shared market sensitive information with Epstein during the 2008 financial crisis, when Mandelson served as business secretary. Meanwhile police launched a criminal investigation into Mandelson for potential leaks.
Political Fallout
Starmer faced questions about his judgment. Labour MPs called for McSweeney’s exit after the evidence surfaced. Meanwhile the foreign ministry reviewed Mandelson’s exit payment. The scandal damaged trust in the government.
Party Impact
McSweeney, a protégé of Mandelson, amplified internal divisions. Furthermore the resignation highlighted ongoing scrutiny of political appointments.
Starmer’s administration navigated the crisis as opposition parties demanded accountability. The events underscored challenges for Labour in maintaining public confidence.
