.
Morgan McSweeney has stepped down as Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s chief of staff after growing backlash inside the Labour Party over the Peter Mandelson controversy. McSweeney had been blamed for pushing Lord Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador, despite the peer’s past ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Mandelson was removed from government last year, but anger has intensified after newly released documents showed he shared information with Epstein even while serving as a minister. Many inside Labour argued that appointing him to a top diplomatic role was a serious lapse in judgment.
In his resignation statement, McSweeney said the decision to support Mandelson’s appointment was “wrong,” adding that he took “full responsibility” for the advice he gave the Prime Minister. He said stepping down was “the only honourable course.”
McSweeney explained that he had always worked to help a government focused on improving the lives of ordinary people, and said he leaves with both pride and regret. He also stressed that Labour must overhaul its vetting system so mistakes like this cannot happen again.
Starmer praised McSweeney’s “dedication, loyalty and leadership,” crediting him for Labour’s 2024 election victory. But the scandal has raised questions about the Prime Minister’s own judgment at a time when he is already under heavy political pressure.
McSweeney also acknowledged the wider impact of the Epstein case, saying the suffering of the women and girls involved must not be forgotten as Labour moves forward.
If you find my content helpful, consider buying me a coffee to show your appreciation and help me continue creating.
Buy Me a Coffee