Starmer faces renewed calls to sack chief of staff over Mandelson scandal

The Guardian - World NewsEN 3 min read 100% complete by Kiran Stacey Policy editorFebruary 6, 2026 at 10:20 AM

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Keir Starmer is facing increased pressure to dismiss his chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, due to the controversy surrounding Peter Mandelson's appointment. Simon Opher, a Labour MP, publicly called for McSweeney's removal, citing poor advice regarding Mandelson, whose ties to Jeffrey Epstein have recently resurfaced. The impending release of government files related to Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador is expected to intensify the scrutiny. Harriet Harman criticized Starmer's handling of the situation, deeming him "weak, naive and gullible" for considering Mandelson in the first place. The controversy stems from revelations about Mandelson's relationship with Epstein, including a reported $75,000 payment and the sharing of sensitive information. Starmer has apologized for the appointment, but calls for McSweeney's dismissal persist.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Gordon Brown 40% BBC Radio 4 40% United States 40% Downing Street ×260% Harriet Harman ×260% Jeffrey Epstein ×370% Simon Opher ×370% Morgan McSweeney ×480% Keir Starmer ×790% Peter Mandelson ×990%

Keywords

keir starmer 90% peter mandelson 90% chief of staff 80% morgan mcsweeney 70% political scandal 60% leadership speculation 60% jeffrey epstein 60% labour party 50% downing street 50% adviser sacking 40%