Morgan McSweeney has resigned as the PM’s chief of staff amid controversy over Peter Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador. He said he took full responsibility for his advice. The exit removes No 10’s key strategist credited with Labour’s 2024 landslide and is seen as damage control.
Lord Mandelson received a taxpayer-funded exit payment worth tens of thousands after leaving a government-linked trade role, approved despite scrutiny of his past links to a disgraced financier. The payout has prompted questions over transparency, value for money and propriety.
David Lammy says he warned the PM about appointing Peter Mandelson before a scandal erupted. Allies say the PM is devastated and weighing his future, as potential rivals, including Wes Streeting and Angela Rayner, test support. Party MPs fret over fallout and possible leadership contest.
Senior Labour figures and donors are urging the PM to overhaul his No 10 operation, warning time is running out for a reset. They want changes to advisers and strategy to sharpen delivery and communications, arguing a new team is needed to steady the government’s direction.
Delays in selecting a replacement for the ageing Hawk have raised warnings the Red Arrows may need foreign-built jets. Ex-pilots argue procurement drift risks weakening a flagship showcase of UK skill and industry, though some industry voices maintain a British solution remains achievable.
Actor Beverley Callard, 66, has disclosed a cancer diagnosis. She previously battled the disease and says she draws strength from women who have undergone treatment, resolving to stay strong. The Coronation Street star became emotional while discussing her health.
Emails suggest Jeffrey Epstein arranged a Romanian model to attend a private dinner with Andrew at Buckingham Palace. The correspondence outlines his role in the guest list and has intensified scrutiny of Andrew’s links, with renewed pressure for police to examine the material.
A Labour heavyweight urges the PM to “get your act together”, pressing him to show Labour is a party of service amid backlash over a contentious senior appointment. He calls for clearer priorities, stronger delivery and a renewed focus on competence.
A veteran soap actor revealed a breast cancer diagnosis discovered minutes before filming. She needs urgent surgery, is undergoing treatment, and says she feels fine and remains positive.
Lucy Powell warns the Peter Mandelson scandal will loom over the Gorton and Denton by‑election on 26 Feb, which she calls a “dry run” for the general election. She says the contest could test Labour in a traditionally safe seat as Reform UK seeks gains, a “line in the sand” for the party.