Wednesday briefing: Where Starmer stands after another precarious day in Parliament
Keir Starmer is facing growing scrutiny and declining morale within Labour amid controversy over the appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador, despite surviving a key parliamentary vote. Concerns over security vetting failures and Mandelson's ties to Jeffrey Epstein have fueled accusations of a cover-up, with opposition leaders condemning Starmer's handling of the situation. With next week's local elections approaching, Starmer's leadership is under intense pressure as confidence in his government wanes.
- ▪Keir Starmer survived a parliamentary vote on whether he misled the House over Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador, with most Labour MPs backing him.
- ▪Mandelson failed security vetting due to his links with Jeffrey Epstein, a fact Starmer claims he was unaware of during the appointment process.
- ▪Opposition leaders Kemi Badenoch and Ed Davey accused Starmer of a cover-up, while internal Labour discontent grows ahead of critical local elections.
- ▪Morgan McSweeney, Starmer’s former chief of staff, admitted fault in recommending Mandelson and described learning about Epstein ties as 'like having a knife through my soul'.
- ▪The National Institute of Economic and Social Research warned of a £35bn economic hit and potential recession due to the fallout from the Iran war, adding pressure on the government.
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Keir Starmer appears to be impervious to criticism. Photograph: Temilade Adelaja/APView image in fullscreenKeir Starmer appears to be impervious to criticism. Photograph: Temilade Adelaja/APFirst Edition newsletterKeir StarmerWednesday briefing: Where Starmer stands after another precarious day in parliamentIn today’s newsletter: As Labour braces for heavy local election losses, senior figures are signalling unease and morale is sinking, can the prime minister hang on?Patrick GreenfieldWed 29 Apr 2026 01.45 EDTLast modified on Wed 29 Apr 2026 02.41 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleGood morning. Keir Starmer is on thin ice.
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