British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing intense backlash over the appointment of Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the United States, raising serious questions about his leadership and the internal operations of 10 Downing Street.
- Former official Olly Robbins alleges Downing Street pressured his team to accelerate Mandelson’s appointment despite vetting warnings.
- Peter Mandelson was sacked in September 2025 due to ties with Jeffrey Epstein and arrested in February on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
- Critics cite a “bunker mentality” and high staff turnover, with over 10 advisers leaving since July 2024.
Pressure Over Mandelson Appointment
Former top foreign ministry official Olly Robbins testified to a parliamentary committee on Tuesday that Starmer’s office put pressure on his team to accelerate Mandelson’s appointment last year. Robbins described himself as a “scapegoat” and claimed his office was under “constant pressure” throughout January 2025.
While Robbins confirmed that the Prime Minister was not told about advice from a vetting body recommending against the appointment, he stated that Downing Street conveyed a “very, very strong expectation” that the process be hurried.
A spokesperson for Starmer has rejected these allegations, arguing there is a clear distinction between applying pressure and being kept informed.
The Epstein Connection and Sacking
Starmer appointed the 72-year-old Mandelson in late 2024, citing his “unrivalled experience.” However, the Prime Minister sacked him in September 2025 after emails revealed deep ties between Mandelson and the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
In February, British police arrested Mandelson on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He has not been charged and does not face allegations of sexual misconduct.
Downing Street Internal Turmoil
Sources close to the Prime Minister’s operation suggest Starmer has relied too heavily on a small group of trusted advisers who acted as “gatekeepers.” This reliance has allegedly left him detached from the public and his own party.
The instability is reflected in high staff turnover. Since taking office in July 2024, Starmer has lost more than 10 advisers, including two chiefs of staff and four directors of communication. Chief of staff Morgan McSweeney resigned in February to take responsibility for the Mandelson affair.
While some sources suggest Downing Street is more functional now that Starmer meets more regularly with Labour lawmakers, others within the party describe the damage to his leadership as “terminal.”
Political Fallout
The controversy contradicts Starmer’s early pledges to “restore honesty and integrity to government” and end the “chaos of sleaze.” Political analysts suggest that losing his primary selling points of competence and integrity leaves the Prime Minister in a precarious position.
Further documents regarding the appointment are expected to be released following the local and regional elections on May 7. Labour is currently projected to suffer significant losses in those elections to the Reform UK party.
A spokesperson for the Prime Minister stated that the government remains focused on delivering for working people, specifically addressing the cost of living and reducing waiting times for the state-run health service.
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