Wounded Starmer limps on to meet his fate at elections next week
Keir Starmer survived a parliamentary vote on an ethics probe into the Peter Mandelson appointment, winning 335 to 223, but faces mounting pressure ahead of crucial local elections on May 7. Despite avoiding immediate political damage, testimony from former officials revealed internal controversy over the appointment process. The scandal, tied to Mandelson’s links with Jeffrey Epstein, continues to undermine Starmer’s authority. His future may hinge on Labour’s performance in next week’s elections and potential leadership challenges.
- ▪Keir Starmer won a Commons vote on an ethics probe into Peter Mandelson’s appointment by 335 to 223, with only 15 Labour MPs voting against him.
- ▪Mandelson was dismissed as envoy in September 2025 after revelations about his ties to Jeffrey Epstein and security clearance issues.
- ▪Former top civil servant Philip Barton stated that Starmer was responsible for the appointment decision but confirmed no pressure was applied on the substance of the process.
- ▪Starmer’s former chief of staff Morgan McSweeney admitted advising in favor of Mandelson was a mistake but denied pressuring officials.
- ▪Labour faces high-stakes local elections on May 7, with expected losses that could trigger renewed leadership challenges.
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Wounded Starmer limps on to meet his fate at elections next weekSign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxThe embattled Mr Starmer enjoyed a rare victory on the evening of April 28 when he won a House of Commons vote on whether he should face an ethics probe over Mr Mandelson’s appointment.PHOTO: REUTERSPublished Apr 29, 2026, 02:40 PMUpdated Apr 29, 2026, 02:40 PMLONDON - Mr Keir Starmer finished a day of parliamentary scrutiny into the Peter Mandelson saga in a better place than he started it, although the Prime Minister’s job may only be safe until a set of high-stakes local elections next week.
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