London: Revelations from Jeffrey Epstein’s files have triggered a seismic political crisis in Britain, rocking Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government just 18 months into his tenure.
Amid mounting pressure, Starmer faces the risk of resignation as Labour MPs withdraw support, labelling his decisions as grave misjudgements.
The scandal centres on Starmer’s appointment of Peter Mandelson as Britain’s ambassador to the US in 2024, despite Mandelson’s known ties to the convicted sex offender Epstein. Fresh US Justice Department files released in January 2026 exposed deeper links, revealing Mandelson leaked sensitive government information to Epstein during the 2008-2009 financial crisis and received funds in return. Although Starmer dismissed Mandelson in September 2025 over prior disclosures, the new details have ignited fresh probes into corruption and national security breaches.
Police raids on Mandelson’s properties followed, leading to his resignation from the Labour Party and the House of Lords.
Starmer’s chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney — who advised the appointment — quitted on February 8 and took full responsibility. “I advised the Prime Minister on that appointment and accept complete accountability,” McSweeney stated. Communications director Tim Allan resigned on Monday, amplifying the fallout. Opposition leader Kemi Badenoch slammed Starmer for “a string of poor judgements”, deeming his position untenable.
Starmer apologised to Epstein’s victims, admitting he was misled by Mandelson’s “lies” and vowing to release related documents. Yet, critics decry it as a “continuum of disdain” towards women and the law. Labour MP Emily Thornberry called McSweeney a “controversial figure”, hoping his exit allows a reset, while analysts warn it leaves Starmer isolated.
If Starmer steps down, he could be the first world leader ousted over Epstein files. Potential successors include Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, a Kashmir-origin leader known for tough immigration stances, potentially becoming Britain’s first Muslim prime minister. Others in contention: Angela Rayner, Wes Streeting, Ed Miliband, and Andy Burnham.
This upheaval compounds Starmer’s struggles with economic growth, public services, and inflation, eroding his promise of integrity after 14 years of Conservative rule.