Sir Keir Starmer remains defiant that he will continue to lead Labour into the next general election, insisting the 'vast majority' of his party still has confidence in him despite a turbulent week dominated by the Peter Mandelson appointment controversy.
Starmer's Defiance Amid Mandelson Fallout
The Prime Minister told The Times that he has not turned around Labour's fortunes since 2024 'not to deliver,' and dismissed suggestions that his leadership is under threat. 'You can't be in politics, you can't be the prime minister, if you let these things get to you,' he said.
Starmer acknowledged that the media's focus on the Mandelson affair has overshadowed his international work, such as his recent meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron to secure shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. However, upon returning to domestic matters, he faced a grilling in the Commons over his decision to appoint Lord Mandelson as ambassador to the US.
Vetting Process Under Scrutiny
Starmer admitted he made the wrong call in appointing Mandelson, saying it 'beggars belief' he was not informed that Mandelson had apparently failed developed vetting. He defended his dismissal of permanent secretary Sir Olly Robbins, citing a 'fundamental' error in not raising a 'double red flag' about the appointment.
The situation escalated further when sacked Sir Olly gave his account, highlighting 'pressure' from No. 10 to expedite the vetting process. Starmer insisted 'full process' was followed but conceded mistakes were made.
Public Ridicule and Political Challenges
The Mandelson saga has spilled beyond Westminster, with Saturday Night Live UK lampooning Starmer in a sketch titled 'Who Wants to Remain a Millionaire,' where a fake Starmer dithers over whether to give Mandelson a job. Despite the ridicule, Starmer is focused on serious issues, including keeping the UK economy on track amid global headwinds and potential disruptions from the Iran conflict.
Chief Secretary Darren Jones warned that consumers could feel the pinch for up to eight months after the war ends. Starmer's next big test is the local elections on May 7, where Labour faces challenges in London and risks losing power in the Welsh Senedd for the first time.
Election Campaign Focus
The next general election is likely to be a contest between Labour and Reform, Starmer said, vowing to campaign for 'tolerance, decency, live and let live' – values he claims would be under threat if Nigel Farage entered Downing Street. Despite the turmoil, Starmer remains resolute: 'You can't be in politics, you can't be the prime minister, if you let these things get to you.'
