Overview
- Downing Street confirmed Cabinet Secretary Chris Wormald is leaving, marking a third senior departure in a week as Starmer seeks to refresh his team.
- Chief of staff Morgan McSweeney resigned on February 8 and communications director Tim Allan followed on February 9, both linked to the Mandelson appointment controversy.
- U.S. Justice Department documents released on January 30 allege Peter Mandelson shared confidential, market-sensitive information during the 2009–2010 financial crisis, prompting a UK police investigation into possible misconduct in public office.
- Starmer has rejected calls to resign, with Downing Street describing the government as “strong and united” and senior ministers, including David Lammy and Angela Rayner, offering public support.
- Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar urged Starmer to step down as polls soften and May’s Scottish elections near, while UK 10-year gilt yields rose about 0.07 points to 4.58% reflecting investor unease.