Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden has suggested Lord Peter Mandelson should return the taxpayer-funded payoff he received after being sacked as ambassador to the US, or donate it to a charity supporting victims of violence against women and girls. The peer was dismissed last year over his relationship with convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, but fresh controversy has erupted following the release of documents indicating he leaked market-sensitive information to Epstein while a government minister.
Speaking on Sunday political programmes, Mr McFadden rejected calls for Sir Keir Starmer to resign over the affair, arguing that a change in leadership would lead to “chaos and uncertainty”. He insisted the Prime Minister had “acted in good faith” and was “horrified” by the latest revelations about Lord Mandelson’s ties with Epstein. The Cabinet minister also dismissed demands for the sacking of Sir Keir’s chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, saying the appointment was ultimately the Prime Minister’s decision.
Fire Brigades Union general secretary Steve Wright criticised Sir Keir for ignoring advice from senior Labour figures, including Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and former deputy prime minister David Lammy, who reportedly warned against appointing Lord Mandelson. Labour grandee Lord Blunkett called for Mr McSweeney’s departure, stating the Prime Minister “needs a new chief of staff” after being badly advised.
The row has intensified internal party tensions, with allies of Ms Rayner and potential leadership rival Wes Streeting exchanging bitter remarks amid speculation about a possible contest to replace Sir Keir. Lord Blunkett urged the party to stop “briefings and counter-briefings” and focus on presenting a united front.
