Morgan McSweeney has formally resigned from his position as Prime Minister Keir Starmer's chief of staff, citing his role in the controversial appointment of Peter Mandelson as the United States ambassador. The resignation follows mounting political pressure over the scandal, which intensified after the release of emails highlighting Mandelson's connections with the convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Resignation Over Mandelson Appointment
Mr McSweeney acknowledged that he had actively pushed for Lord Mandelson to be appointed as the ambassador to the US. As the scandal unfolded, his position within Downing Street became increasingly untenable, with public and political scrutiny focusing on the decision's implications for trust in the Labour Party and the government.
Taking Full Responsibility
In his resignation statement, McSweeney expressed that he took "full responsibility" for advising Prime Minister Starmer to proceed with Mandelson's appointment. He described the decision as wrong, stating it had damaged the party, the country, and trust in politics itself. McSweeney emphasized that stepping aside was the "honourable course" of action, asserting that responsibility in public life must be owned when it matters most, not merely when convenient.
Key Points from the Resignation Letter
Below is the full text of Morgan McSweeney's resignation letter to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer:
"After careful reflection, I have decided to resign from the government.
The decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was wrong. He has damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself.
When asked, I advised the Prime Minister to make that appointment and I take full responsibility for that advice.
In public life responsibility must be owned when it matters most, not just when it is most convenient. In the circumstances, the only honourable course is to step aside.
This has not been an easy decision. Much has been written and said about me over the years but my motivations have always been simple: I have worked every day to elect and support a government that puts the lives of ordinary people first and leads us to a better future for our great country.
Only a Labour government will do that.
I leave with pride in all we have achieved mixed with regret at the circumstances of my departure.
But I have always believed there are moments when you must accept your responsibility and step aside for the bigger cause.
As I leave I have two further reflections:
Firstly, and most importantly, we must remember the women and girls whose lives were ruined by Jeffrey Epstein and whose voices went unheard for far too long.
Secondly, while I did not oversee the due diligence and vetting process, I believe that process must now be fundamentally overhauled. This cannot simply be a gesture but a safeguard for the future.
I remain fully supportive of the Prime Minister. He is working every day to rebuild trust, restore standards and serve the country. I will continue to back that mission in whatever way I can. It has been the honour of my life to serve."
Broader Implications and Reactions
The resignation underscores the significant fallout from the Mandelson appointment, which has sparked widespread debate over vetting processes and ethical standards in government. McSweeney's departure is seen as a direct consequence of the scandal, with his letter highlighting the need for systemic reforms to prevent similar issues in the future.
Despite his resignation, McSweeney reiterated his support for Prime Minister Starmer, praising his efforts to rebuild trust and serve the nation. The incident continues to draw attention to the ongoing challenges facing the Labour administration as it navigates this political crisis.
