UK PM Starmer’s communications chief quits amid Epstein scandal fallout

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete February 9, 2026 at 01:19 PM

AI Summary

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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing pressure after his communications chief, Tim Allan, resigned on Monday, following the departure of his chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, the day before. These resignations come amid fallout from the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, specifically criticism surrounding Starmer's appointment of Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the United States, despite Mandelson's known links to Epstein. Mandelson, who was previously sacked by Starmer and has since resigned from the Labour Party and House of Lords, is under investigation after his name appeared in Epstein investigation files. Starmer maintains he will not stand aside and emphasized the importance of moving forward, while the Foreign and Commonwealth Office reviews an exit payment made to Mandelson. Starmer is expected to address the Parliamentary Labour Party regarding the controversy.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

US Justice Department 30% House of Lords 40% UK Parliament 40% United States ×250% Morgan McSweeney ×260% Labour Party ×370% Peter Mandelson ×580% Tim Allan ×380% Keir Starmer ×890% Jeffrey Epstein ×790%

Keywords

epstein scandal 100% resignations 80% keir starmer 70% peter mandelson 70% labour party 60% uk prime minister 60% political fallout 50% communications chief 50% us ambassador 40%