Chris Mason: Starmer can ill afford any more days like these

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced one of his most challenging days in office on Wednesday, January 15, 2026, as a growing scandal involving Lord Peter Mandelson and his past associations with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein escalated. The controversy has sparked fury within the Labour Party, with many MPs expressing frustration over what they perceive as indefensible positions and poor judgment from the leadership. Starmer, in particular, is reportedly furious with Mandelson, a situation that has further darkened the mood among Labour MPs. The prime minister's office has been under intense scrutiny, with critics questioning the vetting process that led to Mandelson's appointment as the UK's ambassador to the United States. The scandal has overshadowed Starmer's efforts to set the agenda, with his planned speech on his values and patriotism likely to be overshadowed by questions about his judgment in the Mandelson affair. The situation has highlighted the power dynamics within the Labour Party, with backbench MPs successfully pushing for greater transparency in the disclosure of documents related to Mandelson's appointment. The Metropolitan Police's investigation into Mandelson has added another layer of complexity, with concerns that the release of certain documents could prejudice future legal proceedings. Mandelson, for his part, has maintained that he acted in good faith and will cooperate with the police, insisting he did not act criminally or for personal gain.