In a dramatic development that has sent shockwaves through Westminster, a senior adviser to Prime Minister Keir Starmer has resigned following the emergence of offensive messages about veteran MP Diane Abbott.
Paul Ovenden, who served as a special adviser in Downing Street, stepped down from his role after private communications containing derogatory remarks about the former shadow home secretary were leaked to the press.
The messages, described by sources as "deeply inappropriate and offensive," have sparked outrage within political circles and raised serious questions about the culture within Starmer's inner circle.
Swift Downing Street Response
Number 10 moved quickly to address the controversy, accepting Ovenden's resignation with immediate effect. A spokesperson for the Prime Minister stated: "These comments are completely unacceptable and do not reflect the values of this government. Mr. Ovenden has done the right thing by resigning."
The swift action demonstrates the sensitivity surrounding issues of race and respect in politics, particularly given Diane Abbott's historic position as the first black woman elected to Parliament.
Political Fallout
The resignation comes at a delicate time for the Starmer administration, which has sought to present itself as a competent and ethical government. Opposition parties have seized on the incident, with Conservative MPs calling it "evidence of deep-seated cultural problems" within Labour.
Diane Abbott, who has faced extensive racist and sexist abuse throughout her political career, has not yet commented publicly on the situation. Colleagues and advocacy groups have expressed solidarity with the MP while condemning the nature of the leaked messages.
This incident is likely to prompt renewed scrutiny of the conduct of special advisers and the vetting processes within government departments.
