UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces mounting pressure as the Mandelson Epstein scandal shakes the government.
Meanwhile, Morgan McSweeney, Downing Street Chief of Staff, resigned on Sunday over the Peter Mandelson appointment.
He stated the decision damaged the party, the country, and public trust. Therefore, he took full responsibility.
McSweeney, 48, had been instrumental in Starmer’s 2024 election victory. Moreover, he guided Labour toward centrist policies quietly.
In addition, McSweeney maintained close ties with Mandelson, a former key figure in British politics.
The resignation came after reports that Mandelson received a payout between $52,000 and $74,000 after just seven months.
Documents released by the US Justice Department on January 30 escalated concerns. They suggest Mandelson may have shared sensitive UK government information with Epstein.
Consequently, authorities launched a police investigation into alleged misconduct in public office.
The Foreign Office confirmed it would review Mandelson’s exit payment given the ongoing investigation and public criticism.
Cabinet minister Pat McFadden partially defended Starmer. However, he emphasized that Mandelson bore primary responsibility for accepting the role.
Meanwhile, opposition leaders criticized the Prime Minister. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said he “never takes responsibility,” while Liberal Democrat leader Daisy Cooper added, “The buck stops with him.”
Furthermore, Nigel Farage predicted Starmer could face political fallout after the Labour Party’s struggles.
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy reportedly opposed Mandelson’s appointment due to Epstein links. Therefore, he distanced himself from the controversy.
Labour also faces criticism over immigration, economic growth, and the cost-of-living crisis. Meanwhile, Reform UK continues to lead in the polls.
Mandelson, formerly EU trade commissioner, resigned from the House of Lords after the Epstein file revelations.
Lawyers for Mandelson said he “regrets believing Epstein’s lies.” Moreover, they claimed he learned the truth only after Epstein’s death in 2019.
As a result, Mandelson expressed “profound sorrow” for victims who did not receive proper protection.
Nevertheless, the Mandelson Epstein scandal continues to dominate UK politics. Consequently, Starmer remains under intense scrutiny while investigations proceed.
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