Morgan McSweeney, the chief of staff to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has announced his resignation from the government, citing his role in advising the appointment of Peter Mandelson as a key factor in his decision. The move comes amid significant political pressure on the Labour administration, with McSweeney stating he leaves with a mix of pride and regret.
Statement in Full: Taking Responsibility
In a detailed statement released today, McSweeney explained his resignation, emphasising that the appointment of Peter Mandelson was "wrong" and had damaged the party, the country, and trust in politics. He acknowledged advising the Prime Minister to make that appointment and accepted full responsibility for his counsel.
"In public life responsibility must be owned when it matters most, not just when it is most convenient," McSweeney stated. "In the circumstances, the only honourable course is to step aside."
Reflections on Service and Departure
McSweeney described his decision as difficult, noting that his motivations have always centred on electing and supporting a government that prioritises ordinary people. He expressed pride in the achievements made under his tenure but lamented the circumstances of his departure.
Key points from his statement include:
- A call to remember the women and girls affected by Jeffrey Epstein, whose voices were long unheard.
- An assertion that the due diligence and vetting processes must be fundamentally overhauled to prevent future issues.
- Continued support for Prime Minister Keir Starmer, whom he praised for working to rebuild trust and restore standards.
Context and Implications
This resignation occurs at a time of heightened scrutiny for the Starmer government, with the Mandelson appointment drawing criticism due to Mandelson's associations with Jeffrey Epstein. McSweeney's departure underscores the ongoing challenges in maintaining political integrity and public confidence.
He concluded his statement by affirming his commitment to the Labour mission, stating it has been "the honour of my life to serve." The fallout from this resignation is likely to influence internal party dynamics and public perception in the coming weeks.
