Labour pushes to replace PM amid Mandelson scandal

Britain’s ruling Labour Party is pressing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to step aside after the controversial appointment of Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the U.S., insiders say. The move, criticized because of Mandelson’s past links to Jeffrey Epstein, has shaken the government and fueled calls for a leadership change.

Starmer’s position weakened further when his chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, resigned, taking “full responsibility” for recommending Mandelson. Now, cabinet members are reportedly threatening to quit if the prime minister does not step down voluntarily.

With local and repeat elections looming, the party risks losing seats, while opposition leaders pounce on the scandal. Labour insiders are already naming potential successors, and the release of documents confirming Mandelson’s appointment could turn up the heat even more.

In Britain, mid-term leadership changes are not unusual, with both Labour and Conservative governments replacing prime ministers without going back to the polls. This week could prove decisive for Starmer’s future.

*Source: Bloomberg