Labour MPs Warn Starmer Faces Leadership Crisis Amid Multiple Scandals

Keir Starmer’s leadership as Prime Minister is facing intense criticism from within his own Labour Party and opposition figures following a series of scandals, most notably the appointment and subsequent sacking of Lord Peter Mandelson as UK ambassador to the US amid revelations of Mandelson's friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Labour MPs and ministers express frustration over Starmer’s perceived lack of political control and leadership, with some warning that his position is "terminal" and predicting he will be replaced before the next general election. Chief of staff Morgan McSweeney has been singled out for pushing Mandelson’s appointment despite security concerns, yet Starmer is reported to be reluctant to dismiss him, further fueling internal discontent. The Mandelson scandal has compounded wider concerns about the party’s direction, trust issues, and Starmer’s judgment, with some Labour MPs publicly questioning his capability to lead. Opposition politicians, including Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, have also criticized Starmer’s governance, accusing him of prioritizing party interests over national challenges like economic instability and security threats. Despite the turmoil, Downing Street maintains that Starmer retains confidence in his team as he prepares to host US President Donald Trump for a state visit.