Diane Abbott Condemns 'Staged' Applause for Keir Starmer Amid Epstein Scandal Pressure
MP Diane Abbott has launched a scathing attack on a round of applause for Keir Starmer, branding it as "staged" following the prime minister's vow to stay in office despite mounting pressure over the Lord Peter Mandelson-Epstein files scandal. The controversy erupted after Starmer addressed the parliamentary Labour Party on Monday evening, where he was met with prolonged applause from colleagues.
Abbott's Blunt Assessment of Labour's Support for Starmer
In an interview with Channel 4 News, Abbott, who was suspended by the Labour Party last year, did not mince words. "I think the round of applause in the committee room just now was staged," she stated bluntly. Expressing scepticism about Starmer's political longevity, she added, "I can’t see him lasting beyond May’s election." Her comments highlight the deepening divisions within the party as it grapples with the fallout from the latest Epstein document releases implicating senior figures.
Cabinet Ministers Rally Behind Starmer Amid Crisis
Despite Abbott's criticism, key Labour cabinet ministers have publicly thrown their support behind Sir Keir Starmer. Angela Rayner, David Lammy, Rachel Reeves, and Wes Streeting are among those who have endorsed the prime minister's leadership during this turbulent period. Their backing comes as Starmer faces intense scrutiny over his connections to Lord Peter Mandelson, whose name has surfaced in the newly released Epstein files, sparking calls for transparency and accountability.
Mounting Pressure and the Epstein Files Fallout
The scandal has placed Starmer under significant pressure to resign, with critics arguing that the association with Mandelson and the Epstein case undermines public trust. The Epstein files, which detail connections between the convicted sex offender and various high-profile individuals, have reignited debates over ethics and integrity in politics. Starmer's decision to address the parliamentary Labour Party was seen as an attempt to shore up support, but Abbott's remarks suggest that not all members are convinced by the show of unity.
As the May election approaches, the Labour Party must navigate these internal rifts while addressing voter concerns over the scandal. Abbott's outspoken critique underscores the challenges Starmer faces in maintaining party cohesion and public confidence amidst the ongoing controversy.
