Senior Labour Figure Calls for Party Unity Behind Prime Minister
One of Keir Starmer's most trusted Cabinet allies has issued a stark warning to Labour colleagues, urging them to rally behind the Prime Minister during a critical period of political turmoil. Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden has publicly argued that abandoning Starmer now would plunge the party into a destructive leadership contest, creating widespread instability.
Mounting Pressure Over Epstein Files Revelation
The Prime Minister finds himself under intense scrutiny following the publication of new emails within the Epstein documents, which shed fresh light on the relationship between the convicted paedophile and Lord Peter Mandelson. Mandelson, who served as UK ambassador to the United States for merely seven months before being dismissed last September, is currently under investigation by the Metropolitan Police.
During a television appearance on Sky News, McFadden acknowledged that Mandelson's appointment was based on his perceived ability to 'operate at the highest political level with the Trump administration.' The minister conceded that this judgement proved erroneous, stating 'it's blown up in the most spectacular manner.'
McFadden's Defence of Starmer's Leadership
Despite the controversy, McFadden - widely regarded as one of Starmer's most loyal ministers - has mounted a vigorous defence of the Prime Minister's position. The MP emphasised that Starmer possesses a democratic mandate from the general election held approximately eighteen months ago, arguing that his governmental agenda remains incomplete.
'I believe he should stay,' McFadden declared. 'His task is by no means complete, it's barely begun. And I also think it is not good for the country to change its Prime Minister every 18 months or two years. It's leading to chaos and uncertainty economically, politically, and reputationally around the world.'
Starmer's Pre-Existing Challenges Intensify
Keir Starmer was already confronting historically low approval ratings before the Mandelson controversy erupted, with some Labour backbenchers now joining calls for his resignation. The Prime Minister's response in the coming days could prove decisive in either calming the political storm or allowing it to escalate further.
In an attempt to regain control of the narrative, Starmer delivered a public apology to Epstein's victims during a Thursday address. He further committed to releasing thousands of potentially damaging messages and documents related to Mandelson's diplomatic appointment, a move forced upon him through Conservative-initiated parliamentary procedures.
Behind-the-Scenes Resistance and Financial Questions
According to reports, several senior figures including then-Foreign Secretary David Lammy - now deputy prime minister - advised against Mandelson's selection for the ambassadorial role. The documents scheduled for release may reveal the extent of Mandelson's influence as a mentor and confidant to government officials.
Further complicating matters, Mandelson is understood to have received a substantial five-figure termination payment following his dismissal, with the Foreign Office currently reviewing this settlement. McFadden, who served as business minister when Mandelson led that department, suggested the former ambassador should 'either return [the money] or give it to an appropriate charity.'
The Prime Minister faces a crucial week that will test both his authority within the Labour Party and his ability to govern effectively amid mounting scandal. McFadden's intervention represents a significant attempt to shore up support for Starmer's leadership before potential further revelations emerge from the Epstein document release.
