Keir Starmer’s chief of staff resigns after recommending Epstein-connected ambassador

Fox News - WorldCenter-RightEN 2 min read 100% complete by Ashley CarnahanFebruary 8, 2026 at 08:47 PM

AI Summary

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Keir Starmer's chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, resigned on Sunday following criticism for recommending Peter Mandelson as the UK's ambassador to the United States. The resignation came after emails revealed Mandelson maintained contact with Jeffrey Epstein after his 2008 conviction and may have shared sensitive government information. Documents also indicated Epstein transferred $75,000 to accounts linked to Mandelson. McSweeney accepted responsibility, calling the appointment "wrong" and stating his departure was the "only honourable course." Mandelson was withdrawn as ambassador and resigned from the Labour Party in February after Starmer learned of the extent of his relationship with Epstein.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Reinaldo Avila da Silva 40% Justice Department 40% Stephen Doughty ×250% United States ×260% UK 70% Labour Party ×270% Keir Starmer ×380% Jeffrey Epstein ×585% Morgan McSweeney ×490% Peter Mandelson ×995%

Keywords

jeffrey epstein 90% peter mandelson 90% resignation 90% keir starmer 80% chief of staff 70% ambassador appointment 70% vetting process 60% public trust 60% labour party 50% political scandal 50%