The leader of the Scottish Labour Party, Anas Sarwar, has called for UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to resign following damaging revelations about Peter Mandelson, the man Starmer appointed as the UK’s ambassador to Washington. This call for resignation comes as Labour faces potential setbacks in the upcoming Scottish elections scheduled for May.
Despite describing Sir Keir as a “decent man,” Sarwar expressed concerns that the ongoing situation at Downing Street could undermine Labour’s electoral prospects. The controversy stems from the latest release of the Epstein files, which allege that Mandelson passed sensitive government documents to Jeffrey Epstein and maintained a relationship with the disgraced financier even after his conviction.
Mounting Pressure on Starmer’s Leadership
Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership is under intense scrutiny, marking the most significant challenge since his landslide victory in July 2024. The fallout from the Mandelson revelations has already led to the resignation of two senior advisors, including Morgan McSweeney, Starmer’s chief of staff credited with orchestrating Labour’s electoral triumph.
During a press conference on Monday, Sarwar emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “They promised they were going to be different but too much has happened.” He warned that the turmoil in Westminster could jeopardize Labour’s efforts to unseat the governing Scottish National Party.
Defending Ties and Calling for Change
Sarwar also addressed his past association with Mandelson, whom he had previously referred to as “my old friend” in a social media post. However, he distanced himself during the press conference, asserting, “Mr Mandelson is not someone or something I want to be associated with.”
He further questioned Mandelson’s suitability for his ambassadorial role and his membership in the Labour Party, stating, “But should he have been appointed the ambassador now? Should he be a member of the Labour Party? No.”
Support for Starmer Amidst Calls for Resignation
Despite the calls for resignation, prominent figures within the Labour Party have rallied around Starmer. A spokesperson for the Prime Minister emphasized his mandate, stating, “Keir Starmer is one of only four Labour leaders ever to have won a general election. He has a clear five-year mandate from the British people to deliver change, and that is what he will do.”
Deputy British Prime Minister David Lammy posted on X that Labour MPs “support the Prime Minister”.
Other cabinet members, including technology secretary Liz Kendall, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, housing secretary Steve Reed, and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Darren Jones, also issued statements backing Starmer during Sarwar’s press conference.
Leadership Contenders and Future Implications
Health Minister Wes Streeting, considered a potential leadership contender, voiced his support for Starmer in an interview with Sky News UK. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the government, stating, “It has not been the best week for the government,” but maintained that Starmer should be given another chance.
The unfolding situation presents a critical juncture for Labour as it seeks to maintain unity and focus on its policy agenda. The upcoming Scottish elections could serve as a litmus test for Starmer’s leadership and the party’s ability to navigate internal and external challenges.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, all eyes will be on how Labour addresses these controversies and whether Starmer can retain the confidence of his party and the public.
