Brief by UK PM Keir Starmer Under Intense Pressure as Top Aide Resigns Amid Mandelson Controversy / 03:32pm on 09 Feb 2026,Monday International
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing mounting political turmoil after chief of staff Morgan McSweeney resigned over his role in advising the appointment of Peter Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to the United States — a move now mired in controversy due to Mandelson’s past links with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. McSweeney said the decision “damaged trust in politics,” intensifying criticism of Starmer’s judgment. The resignation follows the exit of communications director Tim Allan, marking multiple senior departures in days and fuelling calls within his party and from opponents for leadership change. Starmer insists he will stay focused on governance. (PC: Reuters)
