February 10, 2026 — UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is navigating one of the most turbulent periods of his political career as internal dissent within the Labour Party grows, fueled by the fallout from the Jeffrey Epstein-linked controversy surrounding Peter Mandelson.
The crisis erupted after Starmer’s appointment of Mandelson — a veteran Labour figure with known ties to Epstein — as Britain’s ambassador to the United States last year, which led to public outrage and multiple high-profile resignations.
Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney resigned on Sunday, taking “full responsibility” for advising the controversial appointment, followed less than 24 hours later by the departure of Tim Allan, Starmer’s communications director.
Adding to the pressure, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar broke ranks on Monday, publicly calling for Starmer to step down. Sarwar stated, “The distraction needs to end, and the leadership in Downing Street has to change,” citing the need to restore public trust and focus ahead of the local elections in May. He emphasized that, despite personal regret, a change of direction was necessary.
Cabinet Rallies Behind Starmer, But Tension Lingers
In an attempt to stem the crisis, senior cabinet members issued coordinated statements backing the Prime Minister. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy urged colleagues to focus on Labour’s manifesto goals, saying Starmer had a five-year mandate to deliver change. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper highlighted the importance of Starmer’s leadership both domestically and internationally.
Even so, the wave of public endorsements contrasts with growing unease among rank-and-file MPs and party members. Observers note that while Starmer enjoys cabinet support, his authority over the broader parliamentary party is increasingly questioned.
Analysts suggest that Sarwar’s intervention could embolden other lawmakers to voice dissatisfaction, potentially destabilizing Starmer’s leadership in the coming months.
Fallout from the Mandelson Appointment
The controversy centers on Mandelson’s alleged misconduct and ongoing investigations. Following the release of documents by the US Department of Justice detailing his relationship with Epstein, UK police launched an investigation into potential misconduct in public office.
Reports indicate that Mandelson may have shared sensitive market information while serving as Britain’s business secretary in 2009, further complicating the government’s position.
Starmer has publicly condemned Mandelson’s actions, calling his behavior “shameful” and “wholly incompatible with public service.” He dismissed claims that he was misled, noting that Mandelson had lied about the extent of his Epstein connections.
Starmer’s Leadership Under Scrutiny
Starmer’s premiership, which began with a landslide Labour victory in 2024, is now being tested not by external opposition but from within his own ranks.
Critics argue that repeated missteps, coupled with high-profile resignations, have eroded confidence in his leadership. While the cabinet has rallied to maintain stability, analysts warn that the crisis has exposed deeper divisions and weakened the Prime Minister’s grip on the party.
Labour’s internal struggle comes as the party faces upcoming local elections, which could serve as a referendum on Starmer’s leadership. With public opinion already souring and populist alternatives
like Reform UK gaining traction, the Prime Minister must balance consolidating internal support with regaining public trust.
What Lies Ahead
Starmer is expected to address nearly 400 backbench Labour MPs in a closed-door session later today, aiming to reaffirm his authority and quell dissent.
Political commentators suggest that while cabinet support may buy Starmer short-term breathing room, the long-term sustainability of his leadership hinges on whether he can repair fractured relationships within the party and restore credibility with the public.
The coming weeks will be decisive. Analysts warn that Starmer’s political survival is contingent not only on managing the fallout from the Mandelson controversy but also on navigating the growing restlessness of his own party — a test that could define the trajectory of UK politics for years to come.
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