Minister credits Starmer for ‘taking responsibility’ over Mandelson ahead of key meeting with Labour MPs – UK politics live

UK Skills Minister Jacqui Smith and Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Emily Thornberry addressed the sudden resignation of Downing Street Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney during separate broadcast interviews in London on Thursday morning, following intense internal backlash over the controversial appointment of Lord Mandelson as the UK’s next ambassador to the United States. The departure comes as Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces significant pressure from his own party to restore discipline and address accusations of cronyism within his inner circle. While Smith defended the Prime Minister for maintaining high standards of accountability, Thornberry explicitly credited the move as a necessary step for the 'architect' of the Mandelson deal to step down after the decision alienated large sections of the Labour legislative body. The scandal centers on the decision to appoint New Labour veteran Lord Peter Mandelson to the high-profile diplomatic post in Washington, a move reportedly engineered by McSweeney. This choice sparked immediate friction within the party, with many MPs viewing it as a regression to previous political eras and a failure to consult broader cabinet interests. Emily Thornberry, speaking on the BBC’s Today programme, noted that McSweeney’s position had become untenable because he was the primary driver behind an appointment that many felt prioritized personal networks over strategic party interests. Downing Street is now scrambling to stabilize the administration as Keir Starmer prepares for a crucial meeting with Labour MPs later today. The Prime Minister is expected to justify his leadership decisions and reassure his backbenchers that the government remains focused on its policy agenda rather than internal personnel disputes. Jacqui Smith emphasized that the resignation proves Starmer is willing to 'take responsibility' and ensure that the staff leading the government command the full confidence of the parliamentary party and the public. This reshuffle marks a significant early test for Starmer’s premiership, highlighting the delicate balance between rewarding long-term loyalists and maintaining party unity.