Starmer’s chief of staff Morgan McSweeney quits over Mandelson-Epstein fallout

South China Morning Post Political StrategyNews ReportEN 1 min read 100% complete by ReutersFebruary 8, 2026 at 03:40 PM

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Starmer ousts cabinet secretary in clear out of top team after Mandelson scandal

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Morgan McSweeney, Keir Starmer's chief of staff, resigned amid growing controversy surrounding Starmer's appointment of Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the United States. The resignation comes as Starmer faces increasing pressure regarding Mandelson's past relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, which has surfaced in recently revealed files. McSweeney, a key advisor credited with contributing to Starmer's electoral success, stated that he advised the Prime Minister to appoint Mandelson and takes full responsibility for the decision. He acknowledged the appointment was a mistake that has damaged the party, the country, and public trust in politics. The resignation marks a significant crisis for Starmer's leadership.

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Key Claims (5)

AI-Extracted

He has damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself.

quote — Morgan McSweeney100% confidence

The decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was wrong.

quote — Morgan McSweeney100% confidence

Morgan McSweeney has quit as Keir Starmer’s chief of staff.

factual — article100% confidence

Pressure intensifies on Starmer over his decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the United States.

factual — article90% confidence

Starmer is facing what is widely seen as the biggest crisis of his 18 months in power.

factual — article70% confidence

Claims are automatically extracted and should be independently verified. Attribution indicates the stated source of the claim.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

United States 70% Jeffrey Epstein ×280% Peter Mandelson ×3100% Keir Starmer ×2100% Morgan McSweeney ×2100%

Keywords

chief of staff resignation 90% keir starmer 80% peter mandelson 80% political crisis 70% jeffrey epstein 70% political appointment 60% morgan mcsweeney 60% united states ambassador 50% trust in politics 50%