London, February 8, 2026 – The Europe Today: Morgan McSweeney has resigned from his post as chief of staff to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer following renewed controversy surrounding the appointment of Peter Mandelson as Britain’s ambassador to the United States.
Several Labour MPs had blamed McSweeney for advising the prime minister to appoint Mandelson, a former Labour cabinet minister and peer, to the diplomatic role. Lord Mandelson was removed from the position in September, but the issue resurfaced after the release of new Epstein-related files alleged that he had shared confidential information with the convicted sex offender during his time in government, reigniting political scrutiny.
In a statement announcing his resignation, Morgan McSweeney acknowledged responsibility for the decision.
“The decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was wrong. He has damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself,” McSweeney said. “When asked, I advised the prime minister to make that appointment and I take full responsibility for that advice. In public life, responsibility must be owned when it matters most, not just when it is most convenient. In the circumstances, the only honourable course is to step aside.”
McSweeney played a central role in Sir Keir Starmer’s rise to the Labour leadership and was widely regarded as one of the most influential figures within the party’s senior ranks. His influence had long been a source of internal tension, with some Labour MPs accusing him of sidelining the party’s left wing. He was also known to be close to Lord Mandelson and is reported to have strongly supported his appointment over other potential candidates.
Responding to the resignation, Prime Minister Keir Starmer paid tribute to McSweeney’s contribution, describing it as an “honour” to have worked alongside him.
“He turned our party around after one of its worst ever defeats and played a central role running our election campaign,” Starmer said. “It is largely thanks to his dedication, loyalty and leadership that we won a landslide majority and have the chance to change the country.”
Starmer added that after working closely with McSweeney both in opposition and in government, he had witnessed his deep commitment to the Labour Party and to the country, stating that both he and the party “owe him a debt of gratitude” for his service.
